January 9, 2025 – The City of Houston’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is urging residents to prepare for severe weather expected to impact the region, including heavy rain and temperatures remaining in the 40s over the next 24 hours.

In response to these dangerous conditions and the non-profit centers being at capacity, additional city facilities will remain open overnight to provide shelter for individuals in need. These city facilities have been open all week, offering a safe, warm space for those who are at risk due to the inclement weather, however, due to the combination of rainy cold temperatures and the non-profit centers being at capacity, they will remain open overnight.

Individuals needing assistance or shelter can dial 3-1-1 to receive details on available overflow centers. Z Trips are being offered to individuals who wish to go to these overflow centers. Additionally, individuals can ask a Houston Police Officer to safely take them to these centers. City officials are urging anyone who is experiencing homelessness to seek shelter immediately and take advantage of these facilities.

Dr. David Persse with the Houston Health Department says “The risk of hypothermia rises sharply in cold, wet conditions. Damp or wet clothing will accelerate heat loss. Staying dry is crucial to staying safe. Planning ahead and finding shelter can save your life. Always seek safe shelter when frigid rain is in the forecast.”

Houston residents are encouraged to take precautions to stay safe. City of Houston OEM and the Houston Health Department recommend the following safety tips:

·       Dress Warmly and Layer Up – If you need to go outside, wear multiple layers of clothing and cover as much exposed skin as possible. Wind chill can make temperatures feel colder than they actually are.

·       Remember the 4 P’s – People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants: Check on your neighbors, especially the vulnerable, bring pets indoors, protect exposed pipes, bring sensitive plants inside or cover them.

·       Avoid Driving in Flooded Areas or Stay Home – If you don’t need to be on the road, stay home. Avoid driving through flooded streets, as just 6 inches of water can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.

·       Know the Signs of Cold-Related Illnesses – Cold-related illnesses can occur when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it.

·       Heat Your Home Safely: Practice using heaters safely.

·       Stay Informed – Stay informed by monitoring local weather reports and official sources on social media. Check the City of Houston OEM’s social media channels @HoustonOEM on X, Facebook, and Instagram. 

For more information and winter weather preparedness tips, please visit the City of Houston Office of Emergency Management website at HoustonOEM.org/winterweather.