Enjoy that beautiful weather today, because the National Weather Service is calling for an arctic cold front to move through the area tonight...bringing with it a wintry mix of rain, freezing rain and sleet.
A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect across southeast Texas through Tuesday night!
Residents should monitor the forecasts, especially before the Tuesday morning commute and throughout the day for possible changing conditions. Driving conditions could become hazardous if accumulation occurs. Listen to local officials for any road closures and safety information.
When temperatures drop below 32-degrees, even a thin layer of water on the roads and highways can turn to slick ice, making for dangerous driving conditions.
Driving tips:
- Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists.
- Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
- Be especially careful on bridges and overpasses.
- Know your vehicle and how it operates. Not all cars respond the same to slippery roads.
Also, remember to protect the “Four P’s”: People, pets, pipes and plants...
People:
Keep warm, stay inside if possible.
If you need to go out, dress in layers and wear hats, gloves and an appropriate coat.
Avoid overexertion, as cold weather puts added strain on your body.
Never place a space heater on top of furniture or near water.
Keep heat sources at least 3 feet away from furniture and drapes.
Never leave children unattended near a space heater.
Pets:
Bring pets inside, and move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas.
Keep adequate food and water available.
Pipes:
Disconnect outdoor hoses, drain and store in protected area.
Wrap exposed faucets and pipes - including those outside the house or in unheated crawl spaces, attics, garages and other areas.
Plants:
Bring potted plants inside or store in garage near interior wall to provide extra warmth and protection from wind.
For cold-sensitive outdoor plants, put down extra mulch and consider covering with a cloth fabric of some kind to shield the plants from wind and frost.
Protect yourself from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning by installing a battery-operated CO detector and never using generators, grills, camp stoves, or similar devices indoors.
Weather Forecast -
www.weather.gov/hgx/
Road/Traffic Conditions -
traffic.houstontrans tar.org/layers/