Urgent Weather Advisory for Harris County WCID 89 Residents

Dear Residents,
We are facing an unusual and severe winter weather event in our area. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning effective from 6:00 PM CST today until 6:00 PM CST Tuesday. Heavy mixed precipitation is expected, with total snow accumulations of 3-5 inches along and south of the I-10 corridor, and ice accumulations up to one-tenth of an inch. Travel conditions will be hazardous, and some roads may become impassable.

Additionally, an Extreme Cold Watch is in effect from Tuesday evening through Wednesday morning, with wind chills as low as 10°F (-12°C). These conditions can lead to hypothermia with prolonged exposure.

Preparation and Safety Tips:

  • Protect Your Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes and let faucets drip to prevent freezing. Disconnect and drain garden hoses.
  • Stay Informed: Monitor local news and official weather sources for updates.
  • Limit Travel: Avoid unnecessary travel during the storm. If you must travel, exercise extreme caution.
  • Check on Neighbors: Ensure that elderly or vulnerable neighbors are prepared and safe.

Water Services Advisory:

Our team is actively monitoring the situation to maintain water services during this severe weather event. However, extreme conditions can lead to service disruptions. To minimize potential issues:

  • Conserve Water: Use water sparingly to reduce strain on the system.
  • Report Issues: If you experience a loss of water service or notice any water main breaks, please contact our emergency line immediately.

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding during this challenging time. Stay safe and take all necessary precautions to protect yourself and your property.
Sincerely,

Harris County WCID 89 Board of Directors

Urgent Weather Advisory for Harris County WCID 89 Residents2025-01-20T21:13:40+00:00

Winter Freeze Preparation

With freezing temperatures right around the corner, it’s a good time to refresh ourselves on precautionary measures for drops in temperature and cold weather.

The Four P’s to Prepare your Home this Winter:

  • People
  • Pets
  • Pipes
  • Plants

People

  • Avoid going outside if it is not necessary. If you do, make sure you layer up from head to toe.
  • To keep you and your family safe, it is imperative your home is warm.
  • Make sure your heat is set to an appropriate temperature to make your entire home comfortable. Remember, heat rises so if you sleep upstairs, your room may be warmer than rooms downstairs.
  • If you use a fireplace, make sure you have a screen to catch any embers that might escape or a rolling log.
  • Never use your stove or oven to heat your home.
  • If you smell smoke or see flames, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Pets

  • While protecting your family, it is imperative to protect your pets as well.
  • Pets, like humans, are vulnerable to cold temperatures. If not taken care of properly, they can succumb to frostbite and even hypothermia.
  • If you have a dog that typically lives outdoors, consider letting them inside when temperatures drop to freezing. While their fur does help to keep them warm, it provides little help in freezing temperatures.
  • If you absolutely cannot bring them inside, make sure they have a warm shelter, plenty of food and fresh water so it does not freeze.
  • If your pet looks like it has any symptoms resembling frostbite or hypothermia, call your vet.

Pipes

  • Turn off the sprinkler system shut-off valve. Most residential devices have two shut-off valves. These are typically covered in blue on the valve handles and located before and after the sprinkler system backflow device. A diagram is shown below.
  • Release the water pressure from the bleeder valves. The bleeder valves are usually located under the top of the backflow device. If the water does not stop flowing you may have not shut the valves off completely.
  • Leave the smaller bleeder valve open, this will let any remaining water in the line expand without breaking the device. Insulate your backflow device. Most hardware/home services stores carry backflow insulation supplies.
  • Make sure to cover all your exposed pipes with a cover. You can also cover your pipes with towels, duct tape or another adhesive strip as long as they are wrapped tightly.
  • You can also open up the cabinets to let warm air circulate throughout your home. Just make sure any harmful chemicals are out of reach for children and pets.

Plants

  • When cold weather hits, it’s a good idea to bring in all of your outdoor plants.
  • If you can’t bring in the plant, cover it with a blanket to make sure they do not die.

Other Tips

  • Don’t forget to make sure your car is okay for the freezing temperatures. Check your anti-freeze and your batteries. Also make sure to check your tire pressure and the tread.
  • Speaking of cars, make sure when you are on the road that you are mindful parts of the roads may be frozen, particularly bridges. Do not speed and never slam on the brakes.
  • Make sure if you use a generator, it is outdoors. Do not use a generator inside, including in your garage.
Winter Freeze Preparation2024-05-06T22:36:01+00:00

Happy Holidays from WCID 89

Happy Holidays & Happy New Year

The Harris County WCID 89 Board wishes you a joyous holiday season filled with warmth, laughter, and the spirit of togetherness.

May this festive time bring you happiness and cheer!

Happy Holidays from WCID 892024-05-06T22:36:23+00:00
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