While its intensity is debatable, most long-term weather forecasts are predicting a polar vortex returning to the area toward the end of the month. Now is the time to prepare homes and vehicles for winter weather.
A polar vortex is an area of low pressure surrounding the Earth’s poles.
During the winter, the pressure builds, sending cold air further south. At times, the cold air dips all the way into Texas and results in uncharacteristically low temperatures for the area. The memorable polar vortex that occurred in February 2021 included precipitation and resulted in blackouts and caused a of damage and inconvenience for North Texas.
Locally, much of the town was without power for several days and damage from frozen pipes followed as the area warmed back up. Total blackouts turned to rolling blackouts as the storm moved off and travel impacts slowly went away. The State of Texas faced a major backlash because of the power outages and the state’s inability to keep up with demand. While the state has made many changes to prepare for future events, the new improvements remain relatively untested.
Now is the time to prepare for the potential return of similar weather. Preparations should include having heaters and fireplaces serviced. Make sure you have several days of reserve water, groceries, and medications on hand. Come up with a plan for taking care of household residents and pets in the event of a prolonged power outage or winter storm event.
More in-depth plans for your residence might include winterizing your home, seeking a back-up power source such as a generator and collecting the supplies needed to winterize outdoor plumbing.
Vehicles should not be left out of any preparation plans. Keep extra blankets in the trunk as well as a winter travel kit that includes water and snacks, cell phone charger, spare winter clothes, jumper cables, flashlight and first aid kit. The National weather Service has great resources at www.weather.gov for your vehicle preparation.
Jeff Patterson, the City of Whitesboro’s Emergency Manager, reinforced that the city closely monitors winter weather patterns and has worked to prepare for winter weather.
“Extreme cold can pose a significant danger to people, pets, and those exposed to the elements,” Patterson said. “Look out for your neighbors, stay warm and, if you have to travel, be very cautious.”
