Mayor Whitmire Urges Continued Caution During Winter Weather

Mayor John Whitmire gave a weather update Sunday morning at the City of Houston Office of Emergency Management. He urged Houstonians to continue to stay of roads and exercise caution in the cold.

HOUSTON – Mayor John Whitmire urged Houstonians to remain cautious on Sunday as the winter freeze continues to challenge the city. Ice buildup remains possible on area roads, and bone-chilling temperatures pose a risk to the health and safety of the city’s most vulnerable residents.During a Sunday morning media briefing, the mayor provided updates on public safety, infrastructure, power outages, and the City’s 12 warming centers.

“I was out until 2 a.m. Sunday checking on our warming centers and greeting our guests. More than 940 people sought warmth from the bitter cold,” said Mayor Whitmire. “I’m grateful to our city employees and the volunteers at each warming center, and I want to thank the Houston Food Bank, American Red Cross Houston, and Islamic Relief for providing food and resources during this time.”

The City’s warming centers will remain open 24/7 until further notice. Through a partnership with CenterPoint Energy, every warming center is now equipped with a generator to ensure power and heat are maintained during the freeze.

Mayor Whitmire visited each of the city’s warming centers Saturday night.

Houstonians are also urged to limit driving Sunday evening. While the rain has stopped, moisture on roadways is beginning to freeze, especially on elevated ramps and bridges.“If you have to travel, drive slowly and monitor road conditions,” said Police Chief Noe Diaz. “Don’t let the sunlight fool you. There are still wet patches. If you must be on the road, slow down to travel safely.”

Overnight, the Houston Fire Department responded to eight calls for possible carbon monoxide poisoning. No fatalities were reported.

“Beware of carbon monoxide risks,” said Fire Chief Thomas Munoz. “Use space heaters with caution, do not heat your home with an oven or BBQ, and only run generators at least four feet away from your home. That eliminates the possibility of carbon monoxide entering the house.”
City of Houston Department Closures:

City Offices: Due to inclement weather and hazardous travel conditions, all City of Houston non-emergency offices will be closed Monday, January 26. City of Houston 9-11 and Emergency personnel remain on duty.
Houston Solid Waste: No curbside pickup for Monday (1/26). All facilities and drop off centers will also be closed.
Houston Municipal Courts: Closed Monday (1/26). Visit houstontx.gov/courts for case reset information.
BARC Animal Shelter: Closed to surrenders and intakes on Monday, January 26, however staff will be on hand to care for animals currently in BARC care.
Houston Public Works crews will continue to assess and treat 41 high priority roadways to ensure that police and fire can respond to emergencies and to maintain access into the Texas Medical Center.