Houston Mayor John Whitmire is warning residents to stay home from Saturday through Tuesday as a major winter storm approaches, bringing potentially dangerous cold, wind chills and uncertain ice conditions.
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City officials are establishing warming centers, prioritizing road treatments, and collaborating with utility companies to prevent a recurrence of the tragic 2021 freeze.
On Wednesday, Houston Mayor John Whitmire called on residents to remain indoors and avoid travel from Saturday to Tuesday as city officials brace for an impending winter storm that is forecast to deliver frigid temperatures and dangerous road conditions.
City Emergency Management Director Brian Mason informed the City Council that temperatures may dip into the low 20s or upper teens, with wind chills potentially reaching the low teens or even single digits. Experts are still unsure about the potential amounts of precipitation or ice that the city may experience.
“This is resembling the winter storm of 2021 much more than the one we experienced last year,” Mason stated. “While I’m not suggesting this will mirror the winter storm of ’21, it’s wise to prepare as if we’re facing a similar situation.”
The winter storm of 2021 had a devastating impact on Texas, leaving over 4.5 million residents without power, compelling 14 million to boil their water, and resulting in a tragic death toll of at least 246 individuals across the state. Mason indicated that Houston does not anticipate major power outages this time around but is working in tandem with CenterPoint Energy as a safety measure.
Whitmire announced that the city initiated its emergency response team, that department directors were activated over the weekend, and that they will maintain vigilant oversight of the evolving conditions.
“I want to stress that this is a significant storm,” Whitmire stated. “We’re keeping a close watch on it, updating every hour.”
During the cold snap, all warming centers in Houston will be operational, according to Whitmire, with four of these locations featuring generators for added support. Residents can find shelter at 12 multi-service and community centers throughout the city, with facilities in Acres Home, Fifth Ward, Kashmere, Magnolia, Sunnyside, and Third Ward.
Public Works Director Randy Macchi has urged residents to refrain from dripping their pipes, marking a shift from the usual cold-weather advice. He also announced that crews will begin treating roads for ice approximately 24 hours before the storm's arrival. The city has identified 41 key locations, including elevated roadways, bridges, and overpasses, for prompt treatment.
Macchi stated that Houston does not have snowplows but can borrow equipment from the Texas Department of Transportation if necessary. City water and wastewater facilities are expected to remain operational, with teams ready to address any potential issues.
Whitmire is anticipated to share further updates later this week as the forecast becomes more defined.
City officials are advising residents to take proactive measures by reducing travel, reaching out to vulnerable neighbors, and staying updated via official city communications.
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