AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety is urging Texans to be prepared for winter weather conditions across parts of Texas. An arctic cold front is moving through parts of Texas at this time and will sweep across areas of the state this evening and tonight and continue to affect weather throughout the weekend.
“As this fast-approaching arctic storm settles over Texas, drivers may encounter freezing rain or sleet that could significantly impact road conditions,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “With the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, many travelers may be heading to holiday destinations, and DPS is urging individuals to take extra precautions to account for winter precipitation, along with increased holiday traffic.”
DPS offers the following tips for staying safe during this weather event:
Monitor local weather broadcasts and follow up-to-the-minute weather conditions, at http://www.weather.gov/.
On icy roads, drive slowly and increase distance required for stopping.
Watch for downed trees and power lines across roads. If power is out, treat all intersections as four-way stops.
Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained before any trip.
Keep your gas tank full.
In addition, here is a list of emergency supplies drivers can keep in their vehicle:
Blankets/sleeping bags and extra clothing, mittens and hat
Cell phone, radio, flashlight, extra batteries
First-aid kit and pocket knife
High calorie, non perishable food, bottled water
Sack of sand or cat litter for de-icing roadway
Windshield scraper, tool kit, booster cables, tow rope and shovel
For additional information regarding winter weather preparedness, visit:
http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/dem/threatawareness/winterStormPlanning.htm
The City of Montgomery wants all to have a safe and happy holiday with family and friends.
