SPECIAL UPDATE FOR HOUSTON - ARCTIC BLAST

The National Weather Service has issued a Hard Freeze Warning from 9 pm Thursday to 9 pm Sunday morning. The warning means that temperatures are expected to drop to 25 or below for at least 2 hours for area (except right at the coast). Arctic front arrives Thursday morning with freezing temperatures overnight Thursday, Friday and Saturday (into Sunday morning).

Saturday morning should be the coldest morning with temperatures dropping into the upper teens for many locations (especially outside of Houston) and away from the coast.

Also, note that there is a wind advisory for at least part of the area as it will be quite windy Thursday afternoon through Friday morning. Even for those areas not in the wind advisory, windy conditions will make actual temperatures feel like the single digits at times. Make sure to bundle up (including covering your head where a large portion of heat loss occurs). Wear protective mittens. Layer clothing for best warmth.

If you live in a heated home, you do not need to drip the water in your faucets or open your cabinets. But you should make sure that all exposed and outdoor pipes are protected. Turn off sprinkler systems and wrap exposed valves. The following list is from the National Weather Service and gives excellent advice on protecting the 4 P's (people, pets, plants, pipes).

PROTECT PEOPLE
• Keep warm, stay inside if possible.
• If you need to go out, dress in layers and wear hats, gloves and an appropriate coat.
• Avoid overexertion, as cold weather puts added strain on your body.
• Observe heater safety:
o Never place a space heater on top of furniture or near water.
o Keep heat sources at least 3 feet away from furniture and drapes.
o Never leave children unattended near a space heater.

PROTECT PETS
• Bring pets inside, and move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas.
• Keep adequate food and water available.

PROTECT PIPES
• Disconnect outdoor hoses, drain and store in protected area.
• Wrap exposed faucets and pipes - including those outside the house or in unheated crawl spaces, attics, garages and other areas.

PROTECT PLANTS
• Bring potted plants inside or store in garage near interior wall to provide extra warmth and protection from wind.
• For cold-sensitive outdoor plants, put down extra mulch and consider covering with a cloth fabric of some kind to shield the plants from wind and frost.

Protect yourself from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning by installing a battery-operated CO detector and never using generators, grills, camp stoves, or similar devices indoors.

It is also recommended that you prepare your car for winter. Have your car serviced and add antifreeze as needed.

Stay warm everyone!
Cecilia Sinclair
Wonder Weather Woman