Much colder temperatures arrive on Thursday as a cold front surges south across much of the United States. According to the National Weather Service, the exact timing on the front is still somewhat uncertain. Regardless, the high temperature for Thursday most likely will occur during the morning hours with temperatures falling sharply throughout the day. Peak wind gusts near 45 MPH are likely, and higher wind gusts cannot be ruled out. This will result in wind chill values in the single digits and teens.
Pipes at risk due to prolonged cold
A long duration of well below freezing temperatures and windy conditions may damage exposed outdoor pipes and cause them to burst. Cover outdoor pipes, and leave indoor faucets on a very slow drip. Locate your water shut-off valve and know how to turn it off, and don't forget to turn off sprinklers! Your can report water/sewer leaks and request an emergency water shutoff by calling our 24-hour Water/Sewer Emergency Line at 214.509.4530.
VIDEO: How to locate your water shutoff valve and turn off water at the meter
Note: These same steps may be used for all City of Allen residential meters, including new smart water meters.
Know how to report power outages
Don't call 9-1-1 if your power goes out! Contact your power company to report the outage using the information found on your monthly statement. If you see fallen power lines on a road, alley or sidewalk, call 9-1-1 before contacting the power company.
- CoServ: Report power outages by texting OUT to 855.938.3496. You can get updates on the outage by texting STATUS to the same number. You can also call 844.330.0762 and bookmark CoServ.com/OutageMap for estimated restoration times and other updates.
- ONCOR: Report an outage to Oncor by calling 888.313.4747, by texting OUT to 66267 or by downloading the Oncor mobile app from Google Play or the Apple App Store. You can also view Oncor's outage map or enroll in Oncor alerts to get current information about outages and restoration times.
- GCEC: Report power outages by texting OUT to 855.939.3826. You can get updates on the outage by texting STATUS to the same number. You can report an outage by completing a New Outage Form online and can view the Outage Map for status updates.
Secure trash cans, decorations due to wind
Wind gusts of up to 45 MPH are expected Thursday afternoon. Secure trash and recycling carts, along with any holiday decorations, to prevent damage. Community Waste Disposal suggests writing your house number on your trash and recycling carts so they can be easily identified if they blow away.
Get City of Allen facility updates
Many City facilities are closed or will observe limited hours from Dec. 23-26 for the Christmas holiday weekend. Review holiday closure list. In addition, cold weather has impacted the following facilities and services:
- Park drinking fountains and restrooms: To prevent frozen pipes, drinking fountains will be turned off at City of Allen parks beginning Tuesday, Dec. 20. Restrooms will also be closed beginning Thursday evening, Dec. 22. Restroom access will be restored and drinking fountains turned on next week once temperatures return to normal.
- The Courses at Watters Creek: Greens will be covered beginning Tuesday, Dec. 20. The Players 9-hole course, Futures course and short game area will closed Tuesday, Dec. 20. The Traditions 18 hole course will close Wednesday, Dec. 21. The driving range will close at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21. The golf shop will remain open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday and will be closed on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 24 and 25. Green covers are expected to be removed on Monday, Dec. 26. Visit WattersCreekGolf.com or follow The Courses at Watters Creek on Facebook for updates.
Overnight warming shelters
The Salvation Army offers two overnight warming shelters in Collin County. Check the status of the McKinney warming shelter (600 Wilson Creek Pkwy., McKinney) by calling 214-945-4637. The Plano overnight warming shelter (3528 14th St., Plano) can be reached at 972-423-8254.