LIST: SCHOOL CLOSINGS
HOUSTON – As another round of winter weather threatens southeast Texas, many Houstonians are reflecting on Winter Storm Uri, the devastating freeze that paralyzed the region in February 2021.
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That storm brought days of freezing temperatures, widespread power outages, water system failures and dangerous travel conditions across Houston and much of the state. While officials say the upcoming weather is not expected to mirror the severity of 2021, emergency managers stress that lessons learned from that storm should guide how people prepare now.
What happened during the 2021 winter storm
During the 2021 freeze, millions of Texans, including hundreds of thousands in the Houston area, lost electricity as demand overwhelmed the state’s power grid. Many homes were left without heat for extended periods during dangerously cold temperatures.
At the same time, water infrastructure failures led to boil-water notices across the Houston area as pipes burst and water treatment systems were disrupted.
Grocery stores quickly ran out of bottled water, food and other essentials as residents scrambled to prepare after the storm was already underway.
Road conditions also became hazardous. Ice-covered highways and surface streets led to crashes and stranded drivers, even as officials urged people to stay off the roads.
In the aftermath, officials said that delayed preparation and last-minute responses worsened the impact for many families.
What officials are urging people to do now
With freezing temperatures and the potential for winter precipitation in the forecast, local officials and emergency management agencies are encouraging Houstonians to prepare before conditions deteriorate.
Residents are urged to stock up early on essentials such as food, water, medications, flashlights and batteries. Officials have repeatedly warned against panic buying once weather conditions worsen, noting that early preparation helps reduce strain on stores and supply chains.
People are also encouraged to prepare their homes by insulating exposed pipes, disconnecting outdoor hoses and knowing where their main water shut-off valve is located. During past freezes, burst pipes caused widespread damage across the Houston area.
Drivers are advised to limit travel if freezing rain or ice develops. Houston leaders have warned that our roads are not designed for winter weather and that even small amounts of ice can make driving extremely dangerous.
Officials also recommend charging electronic devices ahead of time and having a plan in case of power outages. Anyone using a generator is reminded to operate it outdoors and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Finally, residents are encouraged to check on elderly neighbors, those with medical needs and pets, who can be especially vulnerable during cold weather.
Lessons from 2021
Emergency officials have emphasized that while weather systems vary, the core lessons from 2021 remain the same: prepare early, avoid unnecessary travel and follow guidance from local authorities.
They stress that preparation now, before freezing temperatures arrive, can help reduce risks to health, safety and property if winter weather impacts the Houston area again this weekend.