Ahead of an arctic freeze arriving early next week, the Houston Airport System and TxDOT are among those sharing their plans for the blast of extremely cold air.
Bush Intercontinental and Hobby airports now have heavy machinery, including snowplows, to treat and clear runways and taxiways to help avoid impacts on travelers.
The machinery is stored, maintained, and in position at both airports, according to information shared on Friday.
The airport system said that its equipment can spray, spread and sweep a deicing treatment on taxiways and runways.
But homeowners aren’t the only ones who have to think about protecting pipes.
Houston Airport System added that it’s also wrapping exposed piping and protecting water sources that service the planes.
Some of the preparations are now in place following the 2021 winter storm, which forced multi-day closures of the airfields at Bush and Hobby.
It’s not just those flying and working the friendly skies who are getting ready, though.
TxDOT said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, that its crews are pre-treating some bridges and overpasses. They’re also focusing on elevated structures such as connector ramps.
Please look out for our crews today as they pre-treat some bridges and overpasses in anticipation of winter weather next week. Help keep them safe while keeping yourself safe. We appreciate it! pic.twitter.com/p2k8YElZAQ
— TxDOT- HOU District (@TxDOTHouston) January 12, 2024
At this time, the agency isn’t treating main lanes or surface streets
Officials said during an update with Houston Mayor John Whitmire on Friday that TranStar would be monitoring for potential icing on the roads.
“All hands are on deck,” Whitmire said.
If you do see a problem, you’re urged to contact law enforcement or you can reach out to TxDOT at 713-802-5000, Danny Perez with the department said.
Drivers should also keep an eye on conditions to know if it’s even safe to travel, and if it’s not, stay off the roads. Lanes may remain open, though, to ensure that first responders can still move through to help people or bring in supplies, if necessary.
Harris County Precinct 3 also shared photos of its crews treating roads and wrapping pipes in the area.
Residents should know that all Precinct 3 parks and community centers will have limited access to water amenities, drinking fountains, and restrooms, for example, starting Friday through Wednesday.
Our dedicated crews are working tirelessly to prepare for the upcoming #arcticfront. From pretreating roads to tending to pipes and wrapping them up, we're committed to your safety and well-being. ❄️ Stay warm, stay safe! pic.twitter.com/SbjtV4drvk
— Office of Commissioner Tom S. Ramsey, P.E. (@HarrisCoPct3) January 12, 2024
PLEASE NOTE, in preparation for the weather, all Precinct 3 parks and community centers will have limited access to water amenities (i.e. drinking fountains, restrooms, etc.) beginning today for the duration of the freeze event, which is expected to end Wednesday, January 17th.
— Office of Commissioner Tom S. Ramsey, P.E. (@HarrisCoPct3) January 12, 2024