ABC13’s Travis Herzog Explains Why Weekend Storm Won’t Mirror 2021 Texas Freeze
The upcoming weekend storm in Texas is raising concerns, but it will not replicate the catastrophic conditions seen during the 2021 Texas Freeze. Chief Meteorologist Travis Herzog from ABC13 emphasized that while this storm may still be impactful, it will not reach the severity of the freeze experienced two years ago.
Key Differences from the 2021 Freeze
Herzog described the current storm as “2021’s younger sibling,” indicating that it will still cause disruption but with distinct differences. The primary variance is the expected weather phenomenon; this weekend, more freezing rain and sleet are forecasted rather than substantial snowfall.
- Freezing rain can lead to hazardous conditions on roads, especially on bridges and overpasses.
- Power outages remain a possibility, depending on how well the infrastructure is prepared.
Infrastructure Preparedness
Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) and CenterPoint have reported upgrades to their systems. They believe the energy infrastructure should be able to meet the anticipated demand during the storm. However, Herzog warned that freezing rain can compromise power lines, posing a risk for outages.
Home Preparedness Tips
Experts recommend taking precautions at home ahead of the winter storm. Mike Ramsden, a home energy auditor, highlighted simple yet effective measures:
- Insulate exposed pipes. This can be done with materials from local stores or even makeshift solutions like a Styrofoam cup.
- Open cabinet doors beneath kitchen and bathroom sinks to allow warm air to circulate.
- Let faucets drip slightly to keep water flowing and prevent pipes from freezing.
Taking these basic steps can help mitigate damage and ensure safety during the storm. For further updates, follow news sources or meteorological channels closely as the situation develops.
