A winter storm warning is in effect for much of North and Central Texas beginning at 6 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 13.
The National Weather Service predicts heavy, mixed precipitation with 3-6 inches of snow and a light glaze of ice. Strong winds will lead to blowing and drifting, reducing visibility to less than one mile at times. Wind chill factors below zero are forecast of Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.
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"Travel will be dangerous and is highly discouraged on Sunday and Monday,” said the warning from the National Weather Service. “If you must travel, keep tools necessary for survival in extreme cold in your vehicle. Hypothermia could result if precautions are not taken.”
Recommended supplies for your vehicle include: warm blankets, jumper cables, a phone charger and an ice scraper. If you must leave your home, ensure you have plenty of gas and bring bottled waters to drink. Do not leave emergency water bottles in your vehicle, as they may freeze and become unusable in an emergency.
Allen does not maintain the plowing equipment needed to deal with major snow accumulations or treat residential/neighborhood streets. Bridges, main thoroughfares and intersections will be given priority attention, but may still become treacherous as conditions worsen.
As major accidents caused by snow and ice are possible, Allen Police and Fire Departments urge residents to stay at home unless absolutely necessary once precipitation begins.
Power outages
Don't call 9-1-1 if your power goes out. Contact your power company to report the outage using the information found on your monthly statement. If you see fallen power lines on a road, alley or sidewalk, call 9-1-1 before contacting the power company.
Leaking/burst pipes
Rapid changes in temperature can put a strain on pipes. Report any outdoor leaks or breaks to Allen’s 24-hour water/sewer emergency hotline at 214.509.4530. To prevent pipes from bursting inside your home, open cabinet doors near pipes and keep faucets on a slight trickle when temperatures drop below freezing. This keep warm air circulating. Know where your water shutoff valve is located in case a leak does occur.
Generator and fireplace safety
Generators produce carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas that can cause fainting and even death. Never use a generator inside your home, basement, garage or other enclosed space. Keep generators at least 20 feet away from any window, door or vent. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, install a CO detector in your home and replace the battery regularly. If you use a fireplace, inspect and clean the chimney annually and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Don’t ever leave a fire unattended.
Pet care
Don’t leave pets outdoors when the temperature drops. If they must be outside for extended periods of time, ensure they have a warm, dry shelter protected from the elements. Keep food and water dishes in a warm spot so they won’t freeze. Cats and small wildlife may seek shelter near the warm engines of parked cars, so bang on the hood to scare them away before you start the car.