An arctic cold front is set to sweep through Texas starting Sunday morning, bringing the state’s coldest weather of the season. First Alert Weather days have been issued from Sunday through Thursday, with temperatures plunging throughout the week.
“Many areas, particularly in the northern half of the state, will see several consecutive nights of below-freezing temperatures,” Franze noted. “Freezing conditions may extend as far south as San Antonio and Houston.”
Temperature Drop and Possible Wintry Precipitation
Following the arrival of the cold front, temperatures are expected to remain below seasonal averages throughout the week in East Texas. The National Weather Service (NWS) has highlighted areas at risk of sub-freezing temperatures, potentially reaching coastal regions.
While cold weather is almost guaranteed, there is some uncertainty regarding precipitation. Weather models present mixed scenarios, ranging from snow and ice accumulation to rain or completely dry conditions.
West Texas: Strong Winds and Travel Cautions
Residents in West Texas are advised to stay updated on road conditions as the front passes. The NWS in Midland has issued wind advisories, with gusts reaching up to 75 mph in areas like Guadalupe Pass and the Guadalupe Mountains over the weekend.
Texans are encouraged to prepare for the upcoming cold snap and stay informed on evolving weather conditions through local forecasts and updates from the National Weather Service. Winterizing your Texas home helps protect against potential damage from freezing temperatures and keeps heating costs down. Here are steps to prepare your home for winter weather:
1. Protect Pipes
- Insulate Exposed Pipes: Use pipe insulation or heat tape for pipes in attics, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls.
- Let Faucets Drip: During freezing conditions, leave a slow trickle of water running in faucets to prevent pipes from freezing.
- Disconnect Hoses: Remove garden hoses from outdoor faucets and use faucet covers to insulate spigots.
2. Seal Leaks and Drafts
- Check Windows and Doors: Use weather stripping or caulking to seal gaps around windows and doors.
- Inspect Attic and Crawl Spaces: Ensure proper insulation to prevent heat loss and protect against drafts.
- Close Fireplace Dampers: When the fireplace isn’t in use, keep the damper closed to stop warm air from escaping.
3. Prepare Heating Systems
- Service Your Heater: Have your HVAC system inspected and cleaned by a professional.
- Replace Filters: Ensure your furnace or heat pump operates efficiently by replacing or cleaning filters monthly.
- Test Thermostats: Check programmable thermostats to make sure they function correctly and maintain your desired temperatures.
4. Protect Your Home’s Exterior
- Clean Gutters: Remove debris to prevent ice dams from forming and damaging your roof.
- Inspect the Roof: Look for loose or damaged shingles that might allow water to leak into your home.
- Trim Tree Branches: Remove overhanging branches that could break under the weight of ice and damage your property.
5. Emergency Preparations
- Stock Supplies: Keep flashlights, batteries, and an emergency kit with food and water for several days.
- Prepare for Power Outages: If possible, have a backup heat source like a portable heater or generator.
- Locate the Water Shut-Off Valve: Know where your main water shut-off valve is in case you need to stop water flow quickly.
6. Insulate the Home
- Install Storm Windows: Use storm windows or plastic film over windows to add an extra layer of insulation.
- Cover Water Heaters: Use an insulated blanket to reduce energy consumption on older water heaters.
- Use Door Sweeps: Attach door sweeps to block drafts from entering under doors.
7. Pool and Irrigation System Care
- Winterize Sprinklers: Drain and insulate sprinkler systems to prevent freezing.
- Cover Pools: Use a pool cover and maintain the water circulation system during freezes to protect pipes and equipment.
By taking these steps, you can better safeguard your home and belongings during Texas winters, which can bring unexpected freezing weather.
