Winter Weather: Prepare for the Upcoming Freeze

Winter Weather: Prepare for the Upcoming Freeze

Published on January 20, 2026

Waco, we are expecting a significant drop in temperatures and potential ice accumulation this weekend. Now is the time to prepare your home, family, and pets for extreme cold.

Stay Informed:

• Watch weather alerts at mywacoaccount.com.
• Keep emergency supplies ready.
• Check on neighbors in need.

Water & Pipe Safety

• Insulate outdoor faucets and exposed pipes. Open cabinet doors under sinks to let heat circulate.
• Let faucets drip overnight (especially those on outside walls) when temperatures are below freezing. Try to limit water use during freezing temperatures.
• Report low pressure, outages, or leaks to MyWaco Central at (254) 299-2489.
• If a pipe bursts, turn off the water at your main meter valve immediately.

Stay Safe on the Road

• If ice accumulates, avoid driving on the road. Bridges and overpasses freeze first.
• If any traffic lights are not working, approach the intersection slowly and treat them as a four-way stop.
• Trash pickups will continue as scheduled as long as the road conditions allow. Check back on the City of Waco website or social media for updates.

Protect Your Pets

Make sure your furry friend stays safe and warm this winter season!

• Keep your pets inside when the temperature drops. Anything below 45° for cats and below 32° for dogs puts them in danger of frostbite and hypothermia.
• Outdoor pets must be protected by a dry, draft-free shelter that is large enough for them move around comfortably. The floor should be raised a few inches from the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The doorway should be covered with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.

Natural Gas

If you have natural gas in your home, keep these tips in mind during this winter weather:

• Never use an oven or a gas stovetop to heat your home.
• Protect your natural gas meter by removing any snow or ice with a broom or a brush (never a hard object).
• Make sure all external vents for dryers and other natural gas equipment are not blocked.
• Minimize the risk of frozen pipes by leaving cabinet doors open and dripping water overnight.
• Save money and energy by setting your thermostat to 68° during the day and 58° when you are away from home.

Need Help?

• (254) 299-2489 (Mon-Fri, 7:30 AM-5:30 PM)
• mywacoaccount.com
• [email protected]

Stay Warm & Safe, Waco!

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