As Houston prepares for the possibility of freezing temperatures and icy conditions next week, CenterPoint Energy is stepping up efforts to prevent power outages like those experienced during the infamous freeze a few years ago.
The company has been collaborating with local and state teams, and first responders, and deploying cold-weather measures across its electric and gas infrastructure in the Houston area. Since August, CenterPoint has trimmed over 3,500 miles of high-risk vegetation, a proactive step to prevent tree-related power line damage—an issue that caused widespread outages during previous severe storms.
“We’re monitoring the severe cold weather expected to hit the Greater Houston area starting on MLK Day,” said Matt Lanza, CenterPoint’s Meteorology Manager. “Our team is keeping a close eye on models for potential winter storms and urging customers to stay alert to changing conditions.”
Early forecasts predict freezing temperatures and precipitation from Sunday through Thursday, potentially leading to frozen power lines and outages. CenterPoint’s Senior Vice President of Electric Business, Darin Carroll, reassured Houstonians, stating, “Our teams are ready to respond quickly and safely to any impacts. We’ve enhanced staffing plans and stationed crews across the region to restore service efficiently.”
The company urges Houstonians to prepare for the cold by creating emergency plans and staying weather-aware. CenterPoint also reminds residents to stay at least 35 feet away from downed power lines and report them immediately.