As a winter storm threatens several days of subfreezing temperatures in the Houston area, energy experts and state officials are urging residents to prepare by protecting pipes, gathering supplies, and checking on vulnerable neighbors to avoid outages and costly damage.
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Energy experts warn Texans in the Houston area to protect their houses immediately before a winter storm brings subfreezing temperatures for at least three days.
Beginning Friday, temperatures might drop below freezing over the weekend, causing broken pipes, water pressure issues, and strain on the domestic system. BKV Energy head of product marketing Sam Luna said the next 48 hours are crucial for preparation.
“Right now is the most ideal time to get ready,” Luna told the Houston Chronicle.
Luna said most Houston homes are more at risk from external water lines that cannot withstand lengthy freezes.
His words: “Any exterior or outdoor water pipes in Houston are just not built or prepared for these long freezes. Disconnect garden hoses and cover outside spigots.
He recommended that irrigation system owners release pressure, close valves, and insulate them to prevent freezing. Luna said home gas lines rarely need protection.
“We have not seen residential gas pipe freezes in Houston,” he stated, noting that commercial gas lines failed during the 2021 winter storm.
Luna also advised against cold-weather faucet dripping. He cautioned that extensive leakage could lower citywide water pressure and cause boil-water advisories.
“If everybody does that in Houston, it will reduce water pressure,” he said. Indoor faucets and plumbing are safe.”
Luna advised opening cabinet doors beneath sinks to distribute warm air around pipes in households without adequate heating.
Luna said awareness has improved, but preparation is still necessary nearly five years after Winter Storm Uri left over 4 million Texans without electricity and killed many.
“We’re going to prepare for the worst,” he stated.
He advised residents to stock two to three days of prescriptions, pet and child food, and backup lighting.
The Texas General Land Office encouraged citizens to insulate homes, test smoke and CO alarms, fuel vehicles, and utilize generators outdoors. The NWS suggests flashlights, radios, extra food and water, first-aid kits, and emergency heating.
Luna advised preparing outside the home.
“Check in on your elderly neighbors down the street or in your apartment community,” he said. It goes a long way to ensure their safety.”
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