Texas braces for another round of severe winter weather as officials anticipate an imminent winter storm expected to bring dangerously cold temperatures and wintry precipitation. This storm is not new to Texas; nearly five years after Winter Storm Uri, which caused widespread power outages and claimed numerous lives, the state is working to ensure better preparedness.
Weather Forecast and Preparations
The winter storm is predicted to start affecting the area on Friday morning and is expected to last through early next week. Residents can anticipate snow, sleet, and freezing rain. In light of this, state and local officials are proactively making preparations.
- Governor Greg Abbott has announced collaboration with local governments to update warming center maps.
- The Texas Department of Transportation has begun treating roadways to reduce ice accumulation.
- Emergency teams including firefighters and the National Guard will be on standby.
Residents are advised to limit travel during the storm. Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux has urged, “If you don’t have to go outside, please don’t.”
Power Grid Readiness
Following the failures of the electrical grid during Winter Storm Uri in February 2021, Texas officials assert that the grid is now in a better position. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) estimates that adequate power will be available throughout the storm.
Key improvements include:
- Increased power generation capacity, particularly from renewable sources like solar and wind.
- Enhanced battery storage, which was minimal during the previous storm.
- Natural gas facilities have been reinforced against severe weather.
Matthew Boms, from the Texas Advanced Energy Business Alliance, noted that extra battery storage is vital during severe winter events. He emphasized that Texas has focused on making its natural gas infrastructure robust in light of past failures.
Utility Companies’ Preparedness
While the grid has improved, local utilities caution that power outages may still occur. Icy conditions present the risk of fallen power lines and damaged infrastructure.
- Electric companies have emergency operations plans in place and are mobilizing crews.
- Utilities are actively monitoring weather conditions and procuring necessary resources.
Chester Brown, an operations director for Xcel Energy, underscored the impact of ice on power lines. Even a thin ice layer can significantly increase weight, leading to structural failures.
City-Level Preparations
To protect vulnerable populations, cities are taking additional measures. In Dallas, warming centers will be opened to assist those experiencing homelessness as temperatures plunge. Federal funds have facilitated improvements, such as generator installations, to ensure these centers remain operational during extreme weather.
Austin Energy General Manager Stuart Reilly stated that, although significant outages aren’t expected, the situation is under close observation as forecasts evolve.
Next Steps
Governor Abbott is scheduled to hold a news conference along with other key officials to discuss the ongoing preparations. They aim to provide updates on the state’s readiness for the upcoming winter storm and ensure safety for all Texans.
