Weather

As freezing temperatures approach the Greater Houston Area, Harris County Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis is taking action to ensure residents have the resources they need to stay safe. With extreme cold, snow, ice, sleet, or freezing rain expected to impact the region beginning Sunday, Ellis has announced the opening of warming centers, shared safety tips, and highlighted essential preparation steps.

“The time to prepare is now,” Ellis stated in a recent announcement, urging residents to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their homes.

Warming Centers Open Across Harris County and Houston

To help residents escape the frigid conditions, warming centers will open in both Harris County and the City of Houston. Harris County centers will operate Monday, January 20, and Tuesday, January 21, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with the possibility of additional days. Hot meals, water, and MREs will be available, and visitors can access transportation to overnight shelters through zTrip.

Harris County Warming Centers

• Tom Bass Community Center: 15108 Cullen Boulevard, Houston, TX 77047

• Finnigan Community Center: 4900 Providence Street, Houston, TX 77020

• Lincoln Park Community Center: 979 Grenshaw Street, Houston, TX 77088

City of Houston warming centers will operate 24/7 from Sunday, January 19, at 6:00 PM through midday Thursday, January 23. Note that this schedule is subject to change. Unlike Harris County facilities, Houston locations will accommodate pets, which may need to be kenneled upon arrival. Residents needing transportation can call 3-1-1 to arrange a ride via zTrip.

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City of Houston Warming Centers

A full list of centers across Harris County and resources can be found at ReadyHarris.org.

Winter Weather Safety: Protecting the Four P’s

Commissioner Ellis reminded residents to prioritize the “Four P’s” during extreme cold: People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants.

• People: Stay indoors, wear layers, and check on elderly neighbors or family members who may need assistance.

• Pets: Bring pets indoors, ensure they have food and water, and create warm sleeping areas.

• Pipes: Insulate exposed pipes, open cabinets to let warm air circulate, and disconnect outdoor hoses.

• Plants: Cover plants with fabric or light blankets to prevent freezing and move container plants closer to the home.

Ellis emphasized the importance of preparation: “Let’s all do our part to make sure everyone can safely weather the freeze.”

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Heater Safety and Emergency Preparedness

The cold weather poses additional risks, including house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. Residents using space heaters should keep them on level, hard surfaces, at least three feet away from flammable materials, and turn them off before leaving the room. Fireplaces should have screens to catch sparks, and generators must be operated outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

Other key tips include:

• Install carbon monoxide detectors.

• Keep flashlights, extra batteries, and emergency supplies on hand.

• Check for icy road conditions before driving.

Houston TranStar and DriveTexas.org provide up-to-date road and traffic conditions.

Stay Informed and Stay Safe

For real-time updates on weather and emergency services, sign up for alerts at ReadyHarris.org or follow the Houston Office of Emergency Management.

“The safety of our community is a shared responsibility,” said Ellis. “Stay safe, stay warm.”

By preparing now, Houston residents can protect themselves and their loved ones from the challenges of this severe winter weather.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.

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