Photo: Getty Images North America
Houston Mayor John Whitmire again emphasized the importance of Houstonians staying home if they can during this stretch of frigid temperatures and likely icy conditions on Wednesday.
"We cannot become complacent," Whitmire said during a press conference Tuesday with public safety officials. "The next 24 hours will be our most dangerous because of the melting snow becoming ice."
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures Tuesday night are expected to be as low as 18 degrees. The Houston area will be under an extreme cold warning Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. The wind chill is also expected to reach as low as 10-15 degrees.
Mayor Whitmire said city fire, police and public works are ready for the second half of the winter weather.
"We're going to continue to be diligent from the city perspective," he said.
Whitmire showed his appreciation to TX Dot for their work in keeping major roadways open like Interstates 10 and 288 open. He added that traffic accident numbers are low.
If you have to travel Tuesday night or Wednesday morning, assume that the roads will be icy.
"The ice is there and it can be deceiving," said Whitmire. "The answer to it is stay at home."
Warming centers are still the city's highest priority for the next 24 hours. Whitmire said the centers that are open are crowded but there is room.
TSA will start taking passengers at 9 a.m. Wednesday morning. Bush and Hobby airports will take arrivals starting at 10 a.m., and departures at 11 a.m. Wednesday.
City employees will not work Wednesday as all buildings will be closed. City buildings will likely reopen on Thursday.