How to Prepare for a Texas Winter Storm

Don’t let a winter storm catch you off guard. Use this guide to prep your home for inclement weather.

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Winter storms in Texas

If you live in Texas, extreme winter weather may not be the first thing on your mind. But surprisingly, the Lone Star State has had its fair share of icy conditions and inclement weather. Winter Storm Uri in 2021 is a prime example of a damaging cold front that swept across the state. During this storm, freezing temperatures and ice caused Texas’ power grid to fail, causing multiple days of electricity outages for millions of residents. The storm also caused billions of dollars in infrastructure damage, and many customers were overcharged for electricity.

Since this traumatic storm, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has worked to winterize the Texas grid to prevent such a grinding halt. However, it serves as a reminder to remain prepared in case a similar winter storm strikes again.

How to prepare for a Texas winter storm

Preparing ahead of a storm helps keep you safe and comfortable. Here are some measures you can take to prep your home for winter:

  • Weatherstrip drafty doors and windows to prevent warm air from escaping
  • Regularly check all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
  • Keep a shovel and snow chains in your car in case you need to drive in icy conditions
  • Secure outdoor furniture in the event of a storm
  • Only use a generator outdoors and away from windows

Emergency kit checklist

An emergency kit is valuable for a variety of unexpected events, especially a power outage or winter storm. Keep these essentials ready to go:

  • Three days’ worth of non-perishable food for your family
  • One gallon of water per person for three days
  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • Battery-powered weather radio
  • Extra prescription medication
  • First aid kit
  • Warm clothes and blankets
  • Extra food and supplies for pets

Best energy plans for winter

Texas electricity prices are influenced by demand and weather. Extreme temperatures, high or low, cause consumers to use more electricity, subsequently straining the power grid as it works harder to meet demand.

As a result, if winter conditions arise, the price of electricity may increase. That’s why our energy experts recommend securing a fixed-rate energy plan to avoid price spikes. This type of power plan protects you from unexpected price fluctuations because your rate is locked in for your entire contract. Explore some of our top fixed-rate energy plans in Texas:

APG&E - SimpleSaver 18 18 months $0.095 / kWh
Express Energy - Flash Value 12 12 months $0.096 / kWh
4Change Energy - Maxx Saver Value 12 12 months $0.096 / kWh
Frontier Utilities - Frontier Saver Plus 24 24 months $0.097 / kWh
Gexa Energy - Gexa Eco Saver Plus 12 12 months $0.097 / kWh
Discount Power - Bill Credit Bundle 12 12 months $0.098 / kWh
Atlantex Power - Radiance1000 12 12 months $0.125 / kWh
Veteran Energy - Valor 12 12 months $0.136 / kWh
TXU Energy - Smart Edge 12 12 months $0.139 / kWh
Constellation - 12 Month Usage Bill Credit 12 months $0.145 / kWh
TriEagle Energy - Real Deal 12 12 months $0.149 / kWh
Reliant - Reliant Power Savings 12 plan 12 months $0.159 / kWh
Direct Energy - Apartment Basics 12 12 months $0.165 / kWh
Cirro - Simple Advantage 24 24 months $0.169 / kWh
Rhythm Energy - Clear Choice 36 36 months $0.173 / kWh
Green Mountain - Pollution Free Conserve 12 Preferred 12 months $0.175 / kWh
Payless Power - 6 Month - prepaid 6 months $0.188 / kWh

Please note: All rates above are accurate as of 12/04/2025, 9:18:19 PM CST for ZIP Code 75001. Rates may have changed since this date/time. For the most up to date rates in your area, please enter your zip code above.

Enter your ZIP code or call the number on your screen to determine which plan can best protect your energy costs this winter.

Winter storm FAQs

What is a winter storm warning?

A winter storm warning indicates that severe winter conditions, such as snow or ice, have begun or may begin within 24 hours. Take action when a warning is issued by collecting your emergency kit, securing outdoor furniture, and staying indoors. Exercise extreme caution and monitor local news stations for updates.

At what temperature will my pipes freeze?

Pipes can freeze once temperatures dip below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, but the highest risk is closer to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. To prevent your pipes from freezing in low temperatures, leave your faucets slightly on to allow them to drip. Before winter arrives, insulate your pipes to prevent bursting.

When was the last big winter storm in Texas?

Texas encountered a major winter storm in February 2021. Winter Storm Uri brought temperatures below freezing, causing the power grid to fail and leaving millions of Texans without power.