Freezing temperatures are again in the forecast. Before you run to the store to empty the bread and milk aisles, limited-to-no impact of winter weather is expected for Baytown. However, the City is prepared and wants you to be ready too.
Freezing temperatures in the 20s are expected by Thursday afternoon. As of right now, the National Weather Service thinks weather will be below freezing for parts of Thursday and Friday, and temperatures could be close Saturday night.
The Baytown Area Water Authority plant is prepared for the cold weather and has been upgraded since last year’s winter storm. Critical tanks and feed lines are better insulated, and on-site heaters have been installed. Pump stations will also have better protection against cold winds. The east plant, that was not operating last year, is up and running and could help reduce the workload in the event of an issue.
Above all else, you can do simple things to be prepared:
- People- Dress in extra layers. Check on neighbors and the elderly to make sure they have heat, food and water.
- Pipes- Insulate your outdoor pipes. Allow faucets to drip and open kitchen cabinets.
- Pets- Keep your pets indoors. If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pets.
- Plants- Cover your plants with blankets or a tarp.
Roads and bridges are the first to freeze, and fog is possible, so take extra time when traveling roadways. Again, while the threat is low, City officials want you to be weather aware and prepared.