Texas power grid operator ERCOT is issuing a Weather Watch through Friday due to arctic air and freezing temperatures

Texas power grid operator ERCOT is issuing a Weather Watch through Friday due to arctic air and freezing temperatures

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The Texas power grid operator is keeping a close eye on the grid as we contend with subfreezing temperatures.

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has issued a weather advisory through Friday due to arctic air. Officials expect grid conditions to be normal.

FULL FORECAST: Below freezing temperatures, dangerous wind chill Monday morning

Frost warnings and a cold warning are in effect Monday morning as temperatures fall below freezing for the first time this season.

For this reason, there is no need for action on the part of customers. The Weather Watch is a warning that ERCOT sends out to communicate that the company is aware that there will be higher electricity demand and potentially lower reserves.

The company said it completed safety and preparedness measures in the Houston area ahead of winter, including testing and inspections of critical equipment and repairing damaged insulation and waterproofing materials.

In light of the cold snap, Star of Hope, which has been helping homeless people in Houston since 1907, will work to distribute coats, hats and blankets to homeless people in the city starting Monday at 12:30 p.m.

READ MORE: Cold weather preparations begin in Houston as officials try to safely house homeless people

Ahead of a significant cold snap hitting Southeast Texas next week, plans are being made to help those without shelter.

There are an estimated 3,200 homeless people in Houston.

Star of Hope could use your help if you have any cold season gear left over. They collect new or used coats of all sizes, hats, blankets – everything you need to keep warm.

You can drop off donations this week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at either the Lamar Street location downtown or the Reed Road location on SH-288.

Star of Hope tries to help as many people as possible. They say both properties are either at or near capacity.

SEE ALSO: More preparations may be needed for winter tornadoes in Houston area, National Weather Service says

Many communities in Southeast Texas are starting the new year recovering from the tornadoes that struck the area last week. Is this Houston’s new normal?

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