NorTex occasionally experiences a Polar Vortex. A polar vortex is a large, low-pressure area of cold air circulating around the Arctic. It occasionally shifts or wobbles southward. It brings extremely cold temperatures and winter weather to regions further south, including parts of North America and Europe.
North Texas isn’t built for sustained arctic temperatures. During extremely cold weather, it’s important to protect plants, pets, pipes, and people. Here are key steps for each:
Protect Plants
Cover sensitive plants: Use blankets, burlap, or frost cloth to cover delicate plants and shrubs - especially young or tender ones. Secure the covers to ensure they don’t blow away in the wind.
Prune branches before the storm: Trim dead or weak branches from trees and bushes to prevent them from breaking under the weight of ice.
Water plants before the storm: Water your plants thoroughly before the freeze. Moist soil retains heat better than dry soil and provides some protection.
Bring potted plants indoors: If possible, move containers or potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location like a garage.
Protect Pets
Provide shelter: Bring pets and farm animals indoors (house or barn) during the storm. If it is not possible, ensure they can access warm, dry shelter.
Limit outdoor exposure: Avoid long periods outside for walks or potty breaks. Cold temperatures, ice and salt can harm paws. Ensure water bowls aren’t frozen.
Check paws frequently: If pets must go outside, check their paws for ice, salt, or other debris that can cause injury. Older pets have more trouble on ice.
Avoid antifreeze: Antifreeze is toxic. Ensure it is not accessible and clean any spills immediately. Use a pet-safe deicers to avoid poisoning or chemical burns.
Protect Pipes
Insulate exposed pipes: Wrap exposed pipes in your attic, basement, or crawlspace with foam pipe insulation, heat tape, or old towels.
Let faucets flow: Allow a small flow from faucets to keep water flowing and reduce the risk of freezing.
Open cabinet doors: For pipes under sinks, open the cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the pipes - especially next to exterior walls.
Keep the heat on: Ensure your home’s heating system runs at a consistent temperature (at least 55°F/13°C) to help prevent pipes from freezing.
Seal cracks: Seal any gaps or cracks near windows, doors, and vents where cold air could get into your home and affect pipes.
Protect People
Stay indoors: Limit outdoor activities during a storm to avoid slips on ice or exposure to extreme cold for long periods.
Dress in layers: Wear warm clothing. Warm clothes include hats, scarves, gloves, long underwear, socks, and insulated footwear to retain body heat.
Keep walkways clear: Spread salt or sand on driveways and walkways to reduce the risk of slipping. Clear snow and ice frequently. Remove large icicles.
Use safe heat sources: Avoid using open flames or unvented fuel space heaters. Ensure proper ventilation if using a gas or wood-burning heater.
Check on vulnerable individuals: Elderly neighbors, people with mobility issues, and others who may be at risk should be checked regularly during the storm.
Take these proactive steps to help minimize the risks created during an ice storm and protect your property, loved ones, and pets. Stay safe!
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Mark M. Hancock, GRI, MRP, AHWD
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