CONROE, Texas – Neighbors and officials in Montgomery County are gearing up for winter weather expected this weekend. KPRC 2 News Reporter Corley Peel was in Conroe, where residents shared their preparations and concerns.
Reactions in Conroe were mixed. Some residents said they weren’t worried about the storm, while others stocked up on supplies, preparing to stay home for a few days.
Melissa Gorenc is taking no chances. “Basically, just making sure that we have gas for the generators in case we lose power. The animals are taken care of food, medication, and then just the outside stuff, make sure my birds have bird seed,” she said.
Miguel Mendez also stocked up on essentials. “I got to buy some supplies as far as water, some bread, milk, and juices, pretty much.”
In a video posted on social media, Montgomery County Judge, Mark Keough, emphasized the importance of preparing now.
“Residents should use today and Friday to finalize their winter preparations, keeping the four P’s in mind: people, plants, pipes, and pets,” Judge Keough said.
From Saturday through Monday night, there is a chance of freezing rain that could lead to icy roads in Montgomery County. The Texas Department of Transportation has been treating roads and overpasses, but Judge Keough urged residents to stay off the roads if possible.
“County commissioners have already implemented their winter response plans, including treating county roads and responding to these changing conditions,” he said.
“I would encourage you to go nowhere this weekend if at all possible unless it is an absolute emergency and is unavoidable,” Judge Keough added.
When asked about his plans once the storm hits, Miguel Mendez said, “Just stay home with the dogs and hopefully just wait for the storm to get through.”
Melissa Gorenc offered advice to her neighbors: “Don’t panic, people. This is not going to last long. It’s not the end of the world if you get stuck in your house for a couple days. Enjoy it and just ride it out. It’s not going to last forever.”
Judge Keough says he has been in contact with CenterPoint, Entergy and local electric cooperatives. They have assured him that they are staffed, prepared to respond to outages caused by icy and windy conditions. Judge Keough also announced that warming centers will be open this weekend, with details to be announced Friday.