Winter Storm Advisory

Updates: February 23, 2021

City of Deer Park Utility Billing customer advisory:

The City would like to provide our utility billing customers with a few updates following last week’s winter storm and facility closures.

First, late fees for February 2021 water bills which would have been applied on Tuesday, February 23 will not be applied until Friday, February 26. This will allow customers who were not able to pay their bills during last week’s facility closures to do so this week without penalty.

Second, customers are advised that additional water usage from last week’s winter weather event – including usage from dripping faucets, busted pipes, etc. – will not appear on the March 2021 water bills. These charges will appear on the April 2021 water bills.

Third, related to the April 2021 water bills customers are reminded that – per City Ordinance – there is a water and sewer adjustment policy in place for documented leak repairs during emergency situations. Customers who submit required documentation of the leak repairs will receive a billing adjustment on their water and sewer charges per the policy. A full explanation of this process and required documentation will be made available on the City of Deer Park website at http://deerparktx.gov/520/Utility-Billing-Central-Collections..

Updates: February 21, 2021

Boil Water Notice Rescinded - February 21, 2021

On February 16, 2021, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality required the City of Deer Park public water system, PWS 1010007, to issue a Boil Water Notice to inform customers, individuals, or employees that due to conditions which occurred recently in the public water system, the water from this public water system was required to be boiled prior to use for drinking water or human consumption purposes.

The public water system has taken the necessary corrective actions to restore the quality of the water distributed by this public water system used for drinking water or human consumption purposes and has provided TCEQ with laboratory test results that indicate that the water no longer requires boiling prior to use as of Sunday, February 21, 2021 at 2:30 PM (CST).

If you have questions concerning this matter, you may contact Nicholas Cook at 281-478-7205 or DPWater@deerparktx.org (preferred). System pressure was successfully restored on Friday, February 19. Chlorine residuals were collected on Friday and Saturday, February 19 and 20. Bacteriological samples were collected Saturday, February 20 and analyzed Sunday, February 21. The combination of these tests provided evidence that the water is safe for consumption, thus allowing us to rescind the Boil Water Notice.

Now that the boil water notice has been rescinded, here are steps to take at both homes and businesses prior to water use.

Home/General:

1. Flush and clean faucets. First, run every hot water faucet for five minutes. Then, run every cold water faucet for five minutes. Finally, clean faucet screens.

2. Take proper steps to flush ice machines by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Once completed, turn on the machine and throw away the first three batches of ice.

3. Run water softeners through a regeneration cycle.

4. Clean and sanitize all fixtures and sinks connected to water lines.

5. Run empty dishwasher for two cycles.

6. Change out all filters after water lines have been flushed.

Businesses:

1. Flush, clean and sanitize all equipment and fixtures with water line connections – post-mix beverage machines, spray misters, steam kettles, coffee or tea urns, sinks and other equipment with water connections in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Clean water line strainers on mechanical dishwashing and glass washing machines and run three complete cycles prior to using dish machine, verify sanitization by using test kits or registering thermometer.

3. Run drinking fountains continuously for two minutes to flush the system.

4. Clean and sanitize all tools and equipment used for cleaning.

Updates: February 19, 2021

State of Texas establishes self-reporting tool for disaster impacts

Residents are advised that the State of Texas has established an online self-reporting tool for disaster impacts during the winter storm.

The purpose of this survey is to help emergency management professionals around the state gain an understanding of damages that have occurred during the recent winter weather. This information is vital to our area meeting the threshold to qualify for federal disaster assistance.

Reporting damage through the survey is a voluntary activity, is not a substitute for reporting damage to your insurance agency, and does not guarantee disaster relief assistance.

We strongly encourage our residents to provide information about the damages sustained during this winter storm.

Click the link below to participate in the survey:

https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/eb1ab4928205490182896d86783447d3

City services update - 2:30PM

Residents are advised that City facilities will resume regular operations on Monday. City phone lines are also operational as of today, Friday.

Garbage collection will be conducted for the north portion of the City (i.e. Monday/Thursday customers) tomorrow, Saturday. The Transfer Station will be closed as employees will be focused on curbside collection. The next heavy trash collection day will be Wednesday, February 24.

Roadway update

Per updated information from Harris County, the Fred Hartman Bridge will re-open at approximately 12:45PM today. Visit drivetexas.org or HoustonTranStar.org for more information about roadways.

UPDATE ON CITY OF DEER PARK WATER - Friday, 11AM

As of Thursday night, water delivery from the Deer Park Surface Water Treatment Plant and the emergency water wells allowed water service to be re-started for the majority of the City.

Water pressure began to stabilize overnight, and the wells were turned off Friday morning.

As of Friday morning, the Surface Water Treatment Plant is providing normal system pressure and flow to the Deer Park area.

Residents are advised that the boil water notice is still in effect and will remain in effect until all state-required water testing is completed. City staff have started this process, and an update will be provided immediately when the notice has been lifted. This notice will be provided via CodeRED, DPTV, the City’s website – deerparktx.gov – and social media.

Supplies - Ready Harris

Looking for supplies? The Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management's Ready Harris website has added a feature to help locate open grocery and drugstore chains in your area, including HEB, Kroger, Wal-Mart and Walgreens.

Residents are advised to contact the store before setting out to shop.

Visit ReadyHarris.org for more information.

Updates: February 18, 2021

City updates, power/water updates - 2:30PM

This is an update for the City of Deer Park during this extreme winter weather.  Weather forecasts do show one more night of anticipated freezing temperatures; however, as the weather improves our community will quickly transition to recovery.  Many of our homes have undoubtedly experienced damage of some sort.  Our public facilities and infrastructure are no different.  
Power has been restored to the vast majority of Deer Park, and additional rolling outages are not anticipated.  According to the latest update to CenterPoint’s Outage Tracker, approximately 97% of customers in our City have power.  Residents are reminded to check food for spoilage if their home was without power for an extended period of time.   
All roadways in Deer Park, including State Highway 225, are now open for public travel.  Additional ice accumulation is not anticipated, but emergency responders are prepared to take action if this should occur.
The city-wide power outages also impacted telephone service at multiple City facilities including City Hall.  The City of Deer Park is working closely with AT&T and our phone vendor to address the issues and return all phone lines to functionality. We anticipate phone service to return to normal by the end of business today.

City Services:
Due to the continuing impacts of this weather, residents are advised that City of Deer Park facilities will remain closed to the public on Friday, February 19. 
This includes City Hall, the Deer Park Community Center/gym, the Deer Park Public Library, and the Municipal Court and Theater Building. The Deer Park Public Library and Community Center will be closed both Friday and Saturday.
Garbage collection will resume on Friday for Tuesday/Friday pick-up customers. Customers who typically have their garbage collected on Thursday should place their garbage on the curb on Saturday.

Water System Update:
The City’s water supply is receiving emergency repairs, and water will be intermittent during these repairs.  Additionally, the boil water requirement will extend for several days to ensure all safety milestones have been met.  Please continue to boil water that will be used for drinking or human consumption purposes. 
Residents are asked to cease dripping faucets, as this is critical for water recovery, to maintain fire protection capabilities, and to allow the system to collect enough water for citizen use.  Please report water leaks to 281-479-1511.  
Residents with broken pipes will need to have their water secured to prevent additional property damage when water supply is restored.  Residents who have the ability to shut-off their own water are asked to do so as city crews are extremely busy completing emergency repairs.

WHAT DOES A "BOIL WATER NOTICE" ACTUALLY MEAN?

**During a boil water notice period, residents are advised that water is safe to use for things like bathing, washing hands, etc. Water must be boiled prior to drinking or other types of human consumption, like brushing teeth. Bring water to a full rolling boil for 2 minutes, then allow it to cool before use. **

The City of Deer Park has issued a boil water notice. What does a “boil water notice” actually mean?
Here are a few general rules to follow:
Use bottled or boiled water for drinking, and to prepare and cook food.
If bottled water is not available, bring water to a full rolling boil for 2 minutes, then allow it to cool before use.
Boil tap water even if it is filtered.
Do not use water from any appliance connected to your water line, such as ice and water from a refrigerator.

Handwashing
In many situations, you can use tap water and soap to wash hands. 
Be sure to scrub your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and rinse them well under running water.
If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Bathing and showering
Be careful not to swallow any water when bathing or showering.
Use caution when bathing babies and young children. Consider giving them a sponge bath to reduce the chance of them swallowing water.

Brushing teeth
Brush teeth with boiled or bottled water. Do not use untreated tap water.

Washing dishes
If possible, use disposable plates, cups, and utensils during a boil water advisory.
Household dishwashers generally are safe to use if the water reaches a final rinse temperature of at least 150 degrees Fahrenheit (65.55°Celsius), or if the dishwater has a sanitizing cycle.
Sterilize all baby bottles.

Laundry
It is safe to wash clothes as usual.

Cleaning
Use bottled water, boiled water, or water that has been disinfected with bleach to clean washable toys and surfaces.

Caring for pets
Pets can get sick by some of the same germs as people or spread germs to people. Provide bottled or boiled water after it has been cooled for pets to use.

Caring for your garden and houseplants
You can use tap water for household plants and gardens

WATER UPDATE - THURSDAY, 11:15AM

The City’s water supply is receiving emergency repairs, and water will be intermittent during these repairs.  Additionally, the boil water requirement will extend for several days to ensure all safety milestones have been met.  Please continue to boil water that will be used for drinking or human consumption purposes.

Residents are asked to cease dripping faucets, as this is critical for water recovery, to maintain fire protection capabilities, and to allow the system to collect enough water for citizen use.  Please report water leaks to 281-479-1511. 

Residents with broken pipes will need to have their water secured to prevent additional damage when water supply is restored.  Residents who have the ability to shut-off their own water are asked to do so as city crews are extremely busy completing emergency repairs.

Phone updates

The Deer Park Police Department’s non-emergency phone lines and 9-1-1 lines are operational; however, your non-emergency call may ring longer than normal before being answered due to intermittent technical issues, and phone service providers may experience outages preventing callers from dialing out to any number (including 9-1-1).  Please stay on the line when calling the non-emergency number, use the below numbers to contact the police department if you can’t get through, or try to use a different phone to dial out, if available:

9-1-1 for life threatening emergencies 

281-478-2000 or 281-479-1511 for non-emergency assistance (ring time may be temporarily longer than normal at times).

713-609-8889 if none of the above numbers is operational.

Roadway updates

***Updated as of 10:10am***

State Highway 225 is now open.

Fred Hartman Bridge is closed.  

Sam Houston Tollway/Beltway 8 bridge is open, but the main lanes of Beltway 8 remain closed.  Feeder roads must be used.

Additional road closure information available at http://traffic.houstontranstar.org/layers/mobile_esri.aspx

Updates: February 17, 2021

City services update, Weather update, Roadway update

Residents are advised that, due to forecasted winter weather for Wednesday evening and Thursday, City of Deer Park facilities will be closed to the public on Thursday, February 18.

This includes City Hall, the Deer Park Community Center, the Deer Park Public Library, and the Municipal Court and Theater Building.

Additionally, due to road closures affecting access to area landfills, garbage/heavy trash collection will not be taking place on Thursday. A decision about Friday garbage will be made on Thursday with updated messaging to follow.

Weather update

The Houston/Harris County area remains under at Winter Storm Warning, with precipitation and cold temperatures continuing through the weekend.

According to the latest update from the National Weather Service, the Houston area can anticipate temperature ranges from the high 30s to the low to mid-20s today, Wednesday and tomorrow, Thursday.

Specifically, there is a 45 percent chance of precipitation for the remainder of today, Wednesday, and a slight chance of additional rain overnight. Temperatures are forecast to remain between 29 and 36 degrees.

On Thursday, the cold temperatures will continue in a range of 29 to 37 degrees, and on Friday, temperatures will dip slightly with a forecasted low of 24 degrees and a high of 42.

Roadway update

Residents are advised that road closures are still in effect on major roadways including State Highway 225 (from Pasadena through Deer Park and La Porte), the Fred Hartman Bridge, and the Sam Houston Tollway (Beltway 8).

Please see below, being provided pursuant to Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) requirements:

Boil Water Notice for Community Public Water Systems - 2/16/2021

Due to low system pressure and the lack of available water, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has required the City of Deer Park (PWS 1010007) public water system to notify all customers to boil their water prior to consumption (e.g., washing hands/face, brushing teeth, drinking, etc). Children, seniors, and persons with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to harmful bacteria, and all customers should follow these directions).

To ensure destruction of all harmful bacteria and other microbes, water for drinking, cooking, and ice making should be boiled and cooled prior to use for drinking water or human consumption purposes. The water should be brought to a vigorous rolling boil and then boiled for two minutes.

In lieu of boiling, individuals may purchase bottled water or obtain water from some other suitable source for drinking water or human consumption purposes.

When it is no longer necessary to boil the water, the public water system officials will notify customers that the water is safe for drinking water or human consumption purposes.

Once the boil water notice is no longer in effect, the public water system will issue a notice to customers that rescinds the boil water notice in a manner similar to this notice.

Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.

If you have questions concerning this matter, you may contact Nicholas Cook at 710 East San Augustine, Deer Park, TX 77536, ncook@deerparktx.org, 281-478-7205. Customers are encouraged to get additional information, including updates on the city website, www.deerparktx.gov , and on Official City of Deer Park social media channels.

UPDATE ON CITY OF DEER PARK WATER – WEDNESDAY, 11:30AM

All area water providers are facing unprecedented challenges providing customers with water. Many area cities, including Houston, Pasadena, Baytown, Pearland and Deer Park, are under a boil water notice.

Beginning last night, due to the fact that water was not being sent out of the Surface Water Treatment Plant, the facility began to gain water supply but is still functioning below operable levels. Over the coming days, the plant will continue the process of producing enough water to return to normal operation and ensure protection of life and property.

During this process, citizens may experience intermittent water service. Intermittent flow of water may cause additional property damage – customers may decide to turn off the water to their property. Should you make the decision to leave your water on, remember the City is under a boil water notice, and any water to be used for human consumption must be boiled for two minutes and cooled prior to use.

NON-EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Per the Deer Park Police Department:

The police department is experiencing intermittent issues with its non-emergency phone lines.  If you are unable to get through to the police department on 281-478-2000 or 281-479-1511, please call 713-609-8889.

9-1-1 is operational and should be used for emergencies.

Updates: February 16, 2021

UPDATE ON CITY OF DEER PARK WATER - Tuesday, 8:30PM

On Tuesday afternoon, the City of Deer Park issued the following statement:

The City of Deer Park has had to turn off (stop) water supply to our water customers in order to make emergency repairs and at the same time preserve fire protection capabilities within the community. During this process, residential and commercial water customers may have intermittent water; however, this water must be boiled prior to human consumption. A boil water order is now in effect for the City of Deer Park until further notice.

We would like to provide additional information for our residents:

The process of returning the Surface Water Treatment Plant and water distribution system to its full capacity will require water to be turned on and off at different points in the system at different times.

Because of this, customers throughout the City will experience intermittent water supply, and that water will need to be boiled prior to any drinking or human consumption.

Steps you can take right now:

Customers may choose to turn off the water at their homes or businesses using either the meter valve, located in the meter box, or through the valve where water enters the property. This can typically be done by hand or using a crescent wrench.

This step would prevent any additional damage from a flow of fresh water into the home or business, if damage to plumbing was sustained during the winter weather event.

Anticipated timeline:

Intermittent flow may be experienced beginning at 10PM Tuesday (February 16). This will continue until the impacts to the water system are found and corrected. We expect that this could take until the end of the week.

The boil water notice will remain in effect for the duration of the repairs and until the water has resumed normal pressure and the water quality has been tested to ensure public safety. This is done in conjunction with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

UPDATE TO THE CITY OF DEER PARK WATER ANNOUNCEMENT:

Water update - Tuesday, 5:35PM

Due to major weather-related challenges facing Deer Park’s Surface Water Treatment Plant and water distribution system, the City has made the decision to suspend the supply of water, effective immediately, to allow for repairs to take place and to preserve fire protection capabilities.

All water provided by the City of Deer Park water system must be boiled prior to use for drinking water or human consumption purposes (e.g., washing hands/face, brushing teeth, drinking, etc.).

In lieu of boiling, residents may purchase bottled water or obtain water from some other suitable source for drinking water or human consumption purposes.

When it is no longer necessary to boil the water, the City of Deer Park will notify the public that the water is safe for drinking water or human consumption purposes.

Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.

City Services, Weather update, Roadway update

Residents are advised that, due to forecasted winter weather for Tuesday evening and Wednesday, City of Deer Park facilities will be closed to the public on Wednesday, February 17.

This includes City Hall, the Deer Park Community Center, the Deer Park Public Library, and the Municipal Court and Theater Building.

Garbage/heavy trash collection will not be taking place on Wednesday but garbage collection on the normal Monday/Thursday route is anticipated to resume on Thursday.

Please note: Tonight’s Deer Park City Council workshop scheduled for 7PM and the meeting scheduled for 7:30PM will be held as normal.

Weather update

Harris County will be under a second Winter Storm Warning beginning tonight, Tuesday, at 6PM and continuing through 6AM Thursday.

According to the latest information from the National Weather Service, Houston/Harris County will likely experience freezing rain to rain during this time. Roadway icing is still a possibility, and residents are encouraged to limit travel if at all possible.

For the remainder of the day on Tuesday, temperatures are expected to remain below freezing, with a low of 18 degrees and a high of 32 degrees.

On Wednesday, February 17, temperatures are expected to increase slightly, with a forecasted high of 41 degrees and a low of 29 degrees. There is also a 92 percent chance of precipitation during the day on Wednesday.

Roadway update

Surface Water Treatment Plant

The Deer Park Surface Water Treatment Plant is functioning at its normal capacity. Water remains potable and safe to consume. Staff does not anticipate any fluctuations in water pressure or availability, but frozen or broken water lines could impact water delivery.

Emergency calls

Per the Deer Park Police Department:

Please call (281)479-1511 if you need emergency assistance from Deer Park EMS, Fire or Police and cannot get through on 9-1-1.

Greater Harris County 9-1-1 advised phone carriers are experiencing unprecedented widespread outages today due to the weather event and access to 9-1-1 may be impacted.

City Services

Residents are reminded that, due to the winter weather, City of Deer Park facilities will be closed to the public on Tuesday, February 16. This includes City Hall, the Deer Park Community Center, the Deer Park Public Library, and the Municipal Court and Theater Building.

Garbage collection will not be taking place on Tuesday.

Check back for additional updates.

Updates: February 15, 2021

Weather forecast - New Winter Storm Warning

An update from ReadyHarris (via Facebook):

A NEW WINTER STORM WARNING has been issued for Harris County from midnight Tuesday to 6 AM Thursday. Freezing rain is expected to develop and travel will become very dangerous. 

More: https://bit.ly/3ua4N

Weather update - 3PM

The National Weather Service has released updated forecast information for the Houston area, indicating that freezing temperatures will continue for the rest of today, Monday, and into tomorrow, Tuesday.

Per updated information available on the NWS website – www.weather.gov/hgx - temperatures are anticipated to stay between a high of 23 degrees and a low of 10 degrees. Additionally, while the Winter Storm Warning will expire at 6PM, the Hard Freeze Warning and Wind Chill Warning will stay in effect through Tuesday at 12PM.

Icy conditions created overnight are expected to continue tonight as temperatures dip into the upper teens and the fallen precipitation re-freezes. Driving in these conditions is still very hazardous, and residents should continue to stay home and avoid road travel through Tuesday.

On Tuesday, temperatures will increase slightly with a high of 31 degrees, but additional rain showers are possible on Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning as a second storm system impacts the area.

Visit the National Weather Service website at weather.gov/hgx for detailed forecast information.

Power outages update - 12:15PM

Please see statement below from the CenterPoint Energy Twitter account, @CNPalerts. It indicates that customers who are currently without power should prepare to be without power for “at least the rest of the day.”

The full message is available for viewing on the @CNPalerts page.

"The Texas electric system is facing an unprecedented power shortage situation due to the extreme winter weather impacting the entire state, including Houston and the region. Texans’ electricity consumption needs have far surpassed current power generation.

Early this morning, ERCOT (@ERCOT_ISO) declared a statewide power generation shortfall emergency and asked electricity delivery companies to reduce load through controlled outages in an effort to bring the supply of and demand for electricity back into balance.

As CenterPoint Energy made preparations to follow ERCOT’s directive to reduce load, we were anticipating outages of 15 minutes to more than an hour.

This morning, conditions for power generation were, and continue to be, very serious; ERCOT needs electric companies to reduce their load at a higher level and longer than they originally thought, which in turn is resulting in longer outages for customers.

Unfortunately, if you are a customer who is currently experiencing an outage, you should be prepared to be without power for at least the rest of the day.

We appreciate our customers’ patience as we continue to follow ERCOT’s directive to reduce load and implement controlled outages across the Greater Houston area. For all our customers who do have power, we continue to ask you to conserve power as much as possible to assist with this situation.

As you may know, CenterPoint Energy is a transmission and distribution company and does not generate power, so the shortage of power generation capacity we are facing is not something we can directly address.

We know this is a very difficult situation for our customers, but we are doing our part, based on ERCOT's directive, to reach a power supply and demand balance across the state."

Roadway closure update

Residents are advised that road closures are still in effect on major roadways including State Highway 225 (from Pasadena through Deer Park and La Porte) and the Fred Hartman Bridge.

Freezing temperatures are forecast to continue throughout today, Monday, and into tomorrow, Tuesday. As such, drivers are reminded that all road travel should be avoided if possible.

Tips for Frozen Pipes

The City of Deer Park will continue to experience freezing temperatures over the coming days, and the extreme cold will likely pose a threat to infrastructure and property with the possibility of burst pipes and water mains.

If a water pipe breaks in your home, here is a list of steps to take to minimize damage and address the situation quickly:

1. Shut off the water – If a pipe bursts, go to your home’s main water valve and shut it off immediately.

2. Disconnect your electrical panel – Turn off the electrical system before you start cleaning up water. These are usually located in the garage, closet or laundry room.

3. Turn on a sink faucet – This will drain the remaining water from the system and relieve pressure, which prevents further damage.

4. Call a plumber – If you don’t currently have a plumber, call one ahead of time and check availability for the next several days.

5. Create a temporary patch using electrical tape, epoxy putty or a sleeve clamp.

6. Clean up the water using towels, blowers and dehumidifiers.

7. Open cabinet or pantry doors – This allows warmer air to circulate around the pipes.

8. Heat up the pipes – Using either a hairdryer or space heater, thaw out the most vulnerable pipes in your home. Remember to keep space heaters three feet from any other object and never use an extension cord.

9. Call your insurance company and document the water pipe break with photos of the break itself and any damage.

Power Outages

The City of Deer Park is working closely with CenterPoint Energy and Harris County in order to address ongoing power outage concerns.

CenterPoint has provided notification that the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has declared a statewide power generation shortfall emergency and directed them to conduct controlled rotating outages in the Houston service area.

As reported by KHOU 11, CenterPoint stated “Most every CenterPoint Energy metered customer will experience a rotating outage. Rotating outages could last from 15 minutes to more than an hour. Depending on the severity of the power generation shortfall, rotating outages may also impact customers more than once, and customers may also experience unplanned outages due to severe weather winter conditions impacting the company’s system. Customers who rely on electricity for life-sustaining equipment should have a back-up plan in place.”

Residents are advised that the CenterPoint Energy website is currently experiencing technical difficulties, and the outage tracker is currently out of service.

Residents who still have power are encouraged to conserve as much energy as possible by following the steps below:

Turn down thermostats to 68 degrees or lower
Turn off and unplug non-essential lights and appliances
Avoid using large appliances like ovens or washing machines
Open blinds/shades to take advantage of the sun’s heat during the day
Close blinds/shades at night to reduce heat lost through windows

Residents without power should take the following steps to stay warm:

Close blinds or curtains to keep in some heat.
Close off rooms to avoid wasting heat.
Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing.
Eat and drink. Food provides energy to warm the body. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Stuff towels or rags in cracks under the doors.

Updates: February 14, 2021

A Winter Storm Warning takes effect for Houston/Harris County at 3PM today, continuing until 6PM Monday. Per the National Weather Service, a major winter storm system with freezing rain, sleet and possible snow is expected to impact the Houston area beginning tonight.

Freezing rain and ice accretion of a tenth to a quarter of an inch are forecast for the southeast Houston area. Based on this, as well as other precipitation and power demand, scattered power outages are also expected.

During this time – especially from tonight through Tuesday – the anticipated precipitation will likely create icy, hazardous roadway conditions, and residents are advised to avoid driving and to remain indoors.

Weather forecast

For the remainder of today, Sunday, temperatures are forecast to reach as low as 31 degrees with a 65 percent chance of wintry precipitation. In addition to the Winter Storm Warning, a Hard Freeze Warning will be in effect as of 6PM today, Sunday, and a Wind Chill Warning will go into effect at midnight tonight (12AM). Both the Hard Freeze Warning and the Wind Chill Warning will be in effect until noon on Tuesday.

On Monday, February 15, temperatures are forecast to stay below freezing, with a high of 29 degrees and a low of 14 degrees, as well as an 87 percent chance of precipitation and a forecasted wind chill of just one degree.

On Tuesday, February 16, the cold temperatures will continue with a forecasted low of 12 degrees and a wind chill of one degree.

Another winter storm is likely on Wednesday/Wednesday night with additional precipitation possible.

For more information, monitor the National Weather Service website at https://www.weather.gov/hgx.

City services

Residents are reminded that, due to forecasted winter storms, City of Deer Park facilities will be closed to the public on Monday, February 15 and Tuesday, February 16. Facilities will re-open on Wednesday, February 17.

This includes City Hall, the Deer Park Community Center, the Deer Park Public Library, and the Municipal Court and Theater Building.

Garbage collection will not be taking place on Monday or Tuesday and will resume on Wednesday.

Please note: On Tuesday, February 16, the Deer Park City Council workshop scheduled for 7PM and the meeting scheduled for 7:30PM will be held as normal.

Updates: February 13, 2021

Weather Watches

Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management has issued a Hard Freeze Watch and a Wind Chill Watch for Sunday night through Tuesday morning for Harris County.

Additionally, the National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Harris County effective Sunday evening through Monday evening. Per NWS, during this time, all winter precipitation types will be possible, and hazardous road conditions, power outages and dangerous wind chills will be possible.

https://www.readyharris.org

Weather update

The City of Deer Park is currently under a Winter Storm Watch, and residents should be prepared for the significant winter storm event forecast for the next several days.

Winter Storm Watches are issued when conditions are favorable for a significant winter storm event, and may be transitioned into a Winter Weather Advisory or a Winter Storm Warning.

According to the latest information from the National Weather Service, area residents will experience temperatures between 33 and 41 degrees for the remainder of today, Saturday, with possible light rain and drizzle.

Beginning Sunday, February 14, the area will experience temperatures between 26 and 39 degrees, with a 48 percent chance of precipitation (rain/freezing rain/sleet or possible snow) and possible thunderstorms. Overnight, temperatures will drop further, with the forecasted range for Monday, February 15 between 16 and 24 degrees and an 85 percent chance of wintry precipitation.

On Tuesday, February 16, temperatures will decrease even further, with lows forecast between 10 and 15 degrees that morning.

Roadway conditions will be extremely dangerous during this time – freezing rain and ice accretion of a tenth to a quarter of an inch is expected throughout the Houston area. Residents are advised to avoid driving from Sunday night through Tuesday morning if possible, and to shelter indoors for the duration of the event.

An additional storm system is expected to impact the area beginning Wednesday, with additional rain potentially forecast for the southern Houston area.

Be prepared

Residents are encouraged to prepare now for this winter weather period.

The Four P’s of Cold Weather (People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants) are important to look out for when the temperature drops below freezing. Please see our tips below!

People:

Keep warm and stay inside if possible. Avoid unnecessary road travel or shopping trips.

If you need to go out, dress in layers and wear hats/gloves/appropriate outerwear.

Avoid overexertion, as cold weather can fatigue the body more quickly.

Pets:

Bring pets indoors and move outdoor animals/livestock to sheltered areas with adequate cover.

Keep adequate food and water available – if possible, shop before freeze occurs.

Pipes:

Disconnect outdoor hoses, and drain and store them in a protected area.

Wrap exposed faucets and pipes, including those outside the house or in unheated crawl spaces, attics, garages and other areas.

Allow water to drip from faucets, especially when temperatures are below freezing, to ensure continuous water flow.

Open cabinets below kitchen and bathroom sinks to allow for warm air circulation.

Turn off irrigation systems to prevent freezing. Wrap your sprinkler system’s main shut-off valve.

Plants:

Bring potted plants inside or store in the garage near an interior wall.

For cold-sensitive outdoor plants, put down extra mulch and consider covering with a cloth fabric.

For more information on winter weather safety, please visit: https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather

Power outages

The severe winter weather forecast for this weekend and next week could cause power outages in the Deer Park area. Should you experience a power outage, please see the CenterPoint Energy link below for additional information or to report an outage.

Outage Center (centerpointenergy.com)

Updates: February 12, 2021

City facility closures - Monday, February 15 and Tuesday, February 16

Residents are advised that, due to forecasted winter storms, City of Deer Park facilities will be closed to the public on Monday, February 15 and Tuesday, February 16. Facilities will re-open on Wednesday, February 17. 

This includes City Hall, the Deer Park Community Center, the Deer Park Public Library, and the Municipal Court and Theater Building.

Garbage collection will not be taking place on Monday or Tuesday and will resume on Wednesday. The Deer Park Transfer Station, located at 610 Old Underwood Road, will be open on Saturday, February 13 from 9AM to 4:30PM. 

Please note: On Tuesday, February 16, the Deer Park City Council workshop scheduled for 7PM and the meeting scheduled for 7:30PM will be held as normal. 

Weather update:

Residents are advised of severe winter weather expected for the weekend and beginning of next week. Now is the time to begin preparations for homes and vehicles, keeping an eye on the four “P’s” – people, pipes, pets and plants.

According to the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, Deer Park will experience near-freezing temperatures on Saturday and Sunday with freezing temperatures beginning Sunday night and continuing through Monday and Tuesday. 

As well, the chance of mixed winter precipitation including rain, freezing rain, sleet and possible snow will increase on Sunday evening to 48 percent. On Monday, the risk of a wintry mix of rain/freezing rain/sleet/snow increases to 80 percent with lows forecast at 21 degrees. Freezing temperatures and wind chills will continue on Tuesday, February 16 – temperatures are forecast to reach lows of 18 degrees with even lower wind chills.

During this time – especially from Sunday night through Tuesday morning – anticipated precipitation will create hazardous roadway conditions, and residents are advised to avoid driving if possible.

Visit https://www.weather.gov/forecastpoints for continual updates from the National Weather Service.

Traffic advisory

Throughout the weekend and into next week, the Houston area will likely experience winter weather including rain/freezing rain, sleet and potential snow. During this time, drivers are encouraged to minimize trips and avoid getting on the road if possible. 

If you are driving, here are a few tips to keep in mind to protect yourself and others.

1. Keep your distance – The standard advised following distance from vehicles in front of you is three to four seconds; however, in snowy or icy roads, this should be extended to eight to 10 seconds for optimal safety. When driving in inclement weather, remember to look far ahead and drive defensively, preparing yourself for changes on the roadway.

2. Drive slowly and be mindful of traction – When driving in snow, ice or even rain, drivers should slow their speed to one-third or half of their typical speed. In addition, refrain from slamming on the breaks as it can cause traction issues and skidding.

3. Accelerate and decelerate slowly – Don’t try to get moving in a hurry and take your time slowing down at red lights. Remember that it takes longer to slow down on icy roads.

4. Prepare in advance – Stay aware of weather conditions and keep an idea of when roads will be snowy, rainy or icy, and take precautions such as cleaning lights and windows, checking windshield wipers, and checking tire pressure and tread.

Stay aware of driving conditions throughout the Houston area – monitor Houston Transtar at the link below.

http://www.houstontranstar.org/

Get prepared

Residents are encouraged to start preparing now for this weekend’s forecasted winter weather.

The Four P’s of Cold Weather (People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants) are important to look out for when the temperature drops below freezing. Please see our tips below!

People:

Keep warm and stay inside if possible. Avoid unnecessary road travel or shopping trips.

If you need to go out, dress in layers and wear hats/gloves/appropriate outerwear.

Avoid overexertion, as cold weather can fatigue the body more quickly.

Pets:

Bring pets indoors and move outdoor animals/livestock to sheltered areas with adequate cover.

Keep adequate food and water available – if possible, shop before freeze occurs.

Pipes:

Disconnect outdoor hoses, and drain and store them in a protected area.

Wrap exposed faucets and pipes, including those outside the house or in unheated crawl spaces, attics, garages and other areas.

Allow water to drip from faucets, especially when temperatures are below freezing, to ensure continuous water flow.

Open cabinets below kitchen and bathroom sinks to allow for warm air circulation.

Turn off irrigation systems to prevent freezing. Wrap your sprinkler system’s main shut-off valve.

Plants:

Bring potted plants inside or store in the garage near an interior wall.

For cold-sensitive outdoor plants, put down extra mulch and consider covering with a cloth fabric.

For more information on winter weather safety, please visit: https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather

Winter Storm Advisory

Frequently Asked Questions

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