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 resulted in billing issues for many customers.
Since that 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 must drive in icy conditions.
- Secure outdoor furniture and loose items that could be blown away by strong winds.
- If you use a generator, always run it outdoors and away from windows and vents to avoid carbon monoxide hazards.
Emergency kit checklist
An emergency kit is valuable for unexpected events, especially power outages during a winter storm. Gather these essentials:
- Three days’ worth of non-perishable food for your family
- One gallon of water per person per day for at least 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
Who do I call if my power goes out?
If you experience a power outage due to a winter storm, call your utility company to report the outage and receive updates. Here is the contact information for Texas’ major utilities:
- AEP Texas Central: Report online or call 866-223-8508
- AEP Texas North: Report online or call 866-223-8508
- CenterPoint Energy: Report online or call 713-207-2222
- Oncor Electric Delivery: Report online or call 888-313-4747 — or text OUT to 66267
- Texas-New Mexico Power (TNMP): Report online or call 888-866-7456
Best energy plans for winter
Texas electricity prices are influenced by demand and weather. Extreme temperatures—hot or cold—cause higher electricity use, which can strain the grid and raise retail prices. During winter storms, prices may spike, so our experts recommend securing a fixed-rate energy plan to avoid unexpected price increases. Fixed-rate plans lock in your supply rate for the contract term and help protect your budget.
| Plan Name | Term Length | Rate per kWh |
|---|---|---|
| APG&E - SimpleSaver 15 | 15 months | 7.6¢ / kWh |
| Octopus Energy - Octopus Lite 12 | 12 months | 7.7¢ / kWh |
| Gexa Energy - Gexa Eco Saver Plus 12 | 12 months | 7.8¢ / kWh |
| Frontier Utilities - Frontier Saver Plus 12 | 12 months | 7.8¢ / kWh |
| Cirro - Bill Bonus 12 | 12 months | 7.8¢ / kWh |
| Discount Power - Bill Credit Bundle 12 | 12 months | 7.8¢ / kWh |
| Express Energy - Flash Value 12 | 12 months | 7.8¢ / kWh |
| 4Change Energy - Maxx Saver Value 12 | 12 months | 7.8¢ / kWh |
| Rhythm Energy - Rhythm Saver 14 | 14 months | 8.1¢ / kWh |
| Atlantex Power - Radiance1000 12 | 12 months | 11.1¢ / kWh |
| Constellation - 12 Month Usage Bill Credit | 12 months | 12.9¢ / kWh |
| Reliant - Reliant Power Savings 12 plan | 12 months | 12.9¢ / kWh |
| Veteran Energy - Valor 12 | 12 months | 13.6¢ / kWh |
| TXU Energy - Smart Edge 12 | 12 months | 13.9¢ / kWh |
| TriEagle Energy - Real Deal 24 | 24 months | 14.5¢ / kWh |
| Direct Energy - Live Brighter Lite 12 | 12 months | 14.9¢ / kWh |
| Green Mountain - Pollution Free Conserve 12 Preferred | 12 months | 17.5¢ / kWh |
| Payless Power - 6 Month - prepaid | 6 months | 18.1¢ / kWh |
Please note: All rates above are accurate as of 4/19/2026, 11:51:23 AM CDT 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 learn which fixed-rate plan can best protect your energy costs this winter.
Winter storm FAQ
What is a winter storm warning?
A winter storm warning indicates that severe winter conditions—such as heavy snow, freezing rain, or ice—are occurring or expected within 24 hours. When a warning is issued, assemble your emergency kit, secure outdoor items, stay indoors, and monitor local news and official advisories.
At what temperature will my pipes freeze?
Pipes can begin to freeze once temperatures fall below 32°F, with the highest risk near or below about 20°F. To reduce the risk of frozen or burst pipes, insulate exposed pipes, leave faucets slightly open so water drips, and keep interior temperatures steady.
When was the last big winter storm in Texas?
The most recent major winter event was Winter Storm Fern in January 2026, which brought freezing temperatures and widespread outages across Texas.