Houston Urged to Prepare as Mayor Whitmire Shares Winter Weather Updates

As winter temperatures begin to drop, Houston officials are urging residents to take precautions now. Mayor John Whitmire shared an update this week outlining how the city is preparing for possible freezing conditions and what households should do to stay safe.

The mayor emphasized coordinated efforts among public safety agencies, public works, and emergency responders. City crews are already monitoring forecasts, readying street treatment materials, and reviewing response plans. Residents were reminded to protect people, pets, pipes, and plants as temperatures fall.

Key steps for Houston households

City leaders encourage residents to review their winter readiness plans and gather essential supplies. Houstonians should check space heaters to ensure they function safely, wrap outdoor pipes, and identify alternate warming options in case of power disruptions. Those with elderly neighbors or relatives are urged to check in frequently.

Public health officials also advise residents to avoid prolonged outdoor exposure as wind chills may drop significantly during peak overnight hours. Families should monitor local alerts and sign up for emergency notifications to receive real-time weather updates.

Why it matters

Houston’s recent history with severe winter events has reshaped how the city plans for cold weather. The mayor said proactive measures now can help reduce disruptions and support community safety during the coldest part of the season. While no severe outages or state-level emergencies are currently expected, officials note that early preparation remains the best defense.

City departments continue coordinating with regional partners to ensure readiness. As forecasts evolve, officials will share updates on warming centers, traffic conditions, and public safety advisories.

This article is a summary of reporting by houstontx.gov. Read the full story here.