Texas is experiencing great challenges weathering winter storm. Amidst bitterly cold temperatures, serious electricity grid problems, and outages have caused millions of Texans to go without power or heat for many days. As a result, President Biden has ordered federal assistance and authorized the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) to coordinate relief efforts.
Americans nationwide are continuing to connect to help each other via the internet amid this national catastrophe, however. Twitter users from cold climates have shared tips for staying warm, crowdsourced resources for those without power and connected people to needed information.
Texans can find more details about community resources and warming centers in their area by calling 877-541-7905 or 211, the state’s free 24-hour helpline. Information about specific local resources, assistance and guidance can also likely be found on local city government websites and social media accounts.
Winter Storm Preparedness Tips
- If you live in a very snowy place, it may be a good idea to invest in a generator. In the event of a winter power outage, a reliable generator and a good fuel supply can make a huge difference.
- Create a winter home emergency kit. You can use the supply list by the American Red Cross as a guide.
- Inspect and/or clean your chimney before winter.
- Get a battery-operated weather radio.
- Stock up on batteries.
- Get your hands on a good shovel.
- Clean the gutters and ensure that the roof is in good condition.
- Weatherstrip windows and doors.
- Insulate the walls and attics.
- Stock up on blankets.
- Stock up supplies in your first-aid kit.
- Learn first-aid for hypothermia and frostbite.
- Make sure your fire extinguishers work.
- Purchase sand, ice melt, or kitty litter for icy surfaces.
Here are available resources, recommendations and important things to know:
Home Damage or Repair Assistance
If insurance does not cover all your damage, you may be eligible for federal assistance. The fastest way to apply is online at www.disasterassistance.gov. If you don’t have internet access you can register by calling 800-621-3362 or TTY: 800-462-7585. The phonelines operate from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT each day.
BStrong in partnership with Global Empowerment Mission supplying Family Necessity Kits
It is best to avoid traveling, but if travel is necessary, keep the following in your car:
- Cell phone, portable charger, and extra batteries
- Items to stay warm such as extra hats, coats, mittens, and blankets
- Windshield scraper
- Shovel
- Battery-powered radio with extra batteries
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Water and snack food
- First aid kit with any necessary medications and a pocket knife
- Tow chains or rope
- Tire chains
- Canned compressed air with sealant for emergency tire repair
- Cat litter or sand to help tires get traction, or road salt to melt ice
- Booster cables with fully charged battery or jumper cables
- Hazard or other reflectors
- Bright colored flag or help signs, emergency distress flag, and/or emergency flares
- Road maps
- Waterproof matches and a can to melt snow for water
Additional Resources
- TexasReady.gov – disaster preparedness, information and resources
- Flood Safety – before, during and after
- Hurricane Safety – before, during and after
- Texas Animal Health Commission – animal resources
- Texas Division of Emergency Management
- Ready.gov – plan ahead for disasters
- National Flood Insurance – homeowners and renters insurance does not typically cover flood damage
- TCEQ – information for public water systems, household debris management, safe drinking water
- TexasReady.gov – disaster preparedness, information and resources
- Flood Safety – before, during and after
- Hurricane Safety – before, during and after
- 7-1-1 for Relay Texas Service
- Long-Term Disaster Recovery Toolkit for Individuals with Disabilities
- Texas Animal Health Commission – animal resources
- 1-800-452-9292 – for TxDOT statewide road closures
- 1-800-525-5555 – for roadside assistance
- Texas Division of Emergency Management
- Red Cross Safe & Well – to register yourself as “Safe and Well” or search for loved ones online
- TCEQ – information for public water systems, household debris management, safe drinking water
- Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs – disaster relief resources
- Texas Department of Insurance – help after the storm
- TDLR – recovery resources for licensees
- Wellness Support
Please Help If You Can
Donate Supplies
Nonprofit organization Front Steps is collecting warm blankets at its downtown Austin location at 500 E. Seventh St. You can even order a blanket online and have it shipped there.
The best blankets are big enough to cover an adult and are made of fleece or acrylic (not cotton or wool) because these materials don’t soak up moisture. Check out Front Steps’ site for specific recommendations.
Here are other supply donation options:
- Austin’s Ending Community Homelessness Coalition (ECHO) has a list of cold weather donations they need right here. They range from HotHands warmers to underwear and thick socks.
- Consider buying something from the Sunrise Navigation’s Amazon wish list that The Texas Tribune recommends.
Donate Money
One of the most effective ways to help others is to put your money where your mouth is.
Feeding Texas is a nonprofit working to feed millions even in non-disaster times, but it has mobilized around connecting donors with food banks especially in need right now. Click here to donate towards its efforts.
Here are additional places to donate $:
- Dallas’ Our Calling manages the city’s convention center shelter, so this is where Dallas Homeless Alliance President and CEO Carl Falconer recommends spending your $.
- Maximize Hope is buying hotel rooms for people in the Austin area, and you can donate to its efforts here
Winter Storm Volunteer Opportunities
Texas Benefit on Clubhouse
Sunday (2/21)
#CHLovesTX is a community aid initiative started by members of the Clubhouse app who are banding together to bring visibility, funds, and aid to the infrastructure crisis in urban and rural Texas.
Join us for updates, music, and fundraising that support on ground mutual aid and community support.
Text “Austin” to 707070 to donate or support Texas winter storm relief.
For more visit: Cosmopolitan.com
Cited Sources:
Austin365
Mashable.com
Cosmopolitan.com
Cruz.senate.gov
Gov.texas.gov
Txpsych.org
Ready.gov
Please feel free to share additional resources, tips and recommendations in comments below.
