As a potentially dangerous winter storm approaches Southeast Texas, Harris County Precinct 4 is taking swift action to prepare roads, protect public safety, and ensure local communities—including Raintree Village—have the resources they need before, during, and after the freeze.

Commissioner Lesley Briones announced Wednesday that Road & Bridge crews have been working across the precinct to prepare bridges and major thoroughfares for icy conditions forecasted this weekend. This includes removing debris and applying chat rock—a fine gravel used to increase traction and reduce slip hazards on icy surfaces, especially on elevated roadways and overpasses.

Road and Bridge teams have already begun these preventative measures across bridges and major roads in Precinct 4, aiming to reduce ice-related hazards for residents, essential workers, and first responders.

What to Expect This Weekend

According to the latest reports from the National Weather Service Houston/Galveston Office, an arctic front is expected to bring:

• Prolonged below-freezing temperatures from Saturday evening through Monday

• Wind chills in the single digits to teens

• Freezing rain starting Saturday morning and continuing through Sunday for most of Southeast Texas

• The potential for hazardous driving conditions and localized power outages

An Extreme Cold Watch and Winter Storm Watch are already in effect for the entire area, including Raintree Village, with the highest risk expected on elevated roadways, bridges, and overpasses

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How Chat Rock Helps in Winter Weather

When ice is expected to form on roads, especially on bridges where cold air circulates above and below the surface, crews apply chat rock—a small, crushed gravel that creates friction and traction between tires and the icy surface. Unlike salt or brine treatments used in northern climates, chat rock is more effective in areas where moisture may already be frozen and chemical de-icers are less practical.

Before laying down chat rock, crews sweep away dirt, leaves, and debris to ensure it adheres properly and provides maximum traction.

How to Report Road Debris or Request Help

Precinct 4 encourages residents to report downed limbs, major debris on public roads, or icy hazards by calling 832-927-4444 or emailing service@hcp4.net. Residents can also submit service requests online at 311.harriscountytx.gov.

For other essential resources:

•  Emergencies: Call 911

• Non-emergencies: Call 311

• Resource Requests: Call 211

• CenterPoint Energy: 713-207-2222

• Report Gas Leaks: 713-659-2111 

• Power Outage Info: CenterPoint Energy Tracker

To ensure that first responders can access people who need immediate assistance, please keep in mind what defines an emergency situation, as shared by the Greater Harris County 9-1-1 Emergency Network:

Remember the 4 P’s of Winter Safety

Commissioner Briones and ReadyHarris are reminding families across Raintree Village to follow the “4 P’s” for staying safe in freezing weather:

• People – Check in on elderly neighbors, friends, and family who may need help winterizing their homes or finding warm shelter.

• Pets – Bring pets indoors and ensure outdoor animals and livestock have proper shelter and warmth.

• Pipes – Wrap and insulate exposed pipes, especially those under raised homes or near exterior walls.

• Plants – Cover sensitive plants using sheets, boxes, or containers, and remember to uncover them during the day to avoid overheating.

For a comprehensive, localized winter storm preparation guide, click here to view the guide recently published by My Neighborhood News.

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Stay Informed

Precinct 4 urges residents to monitor official channels throughout the storm for real-time updates:

• NWS Forecasts: weather.gov/hgx

• Traffic Conditions: Houston TranStar

While this weekend’s storm will bring bitter cold and icy risks, early preparation and neighbor-to-neighbor care can go a long way in keeping the Raintree Village community safe and connected. From clearing bridges to providing real-time support, Harris County Precinct 4 is working around the clock to meet the moment.

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.