WINTER WEATHER UPDATE
From
City of Stamford
Sent
Sat, Jan 24 @ 4:27pm
Description
We’ve had reports of low water pressure around Avoca. City officials drove the area to survey for leaks and found no evident issues. Water is flowing in the Highway 6 main to Lueders and pressures are otherwise good. The Avoca townsite has several 2-inch lines with a small number of taps, so we believe that some small distribution lines with low volumes may be freezing. We encourage everyone to keep faucets dripping and use water to keep it flowing, rather than standing and freezing, in the lines.
Several folks have asked about local effects of power disruptions. ERCOT is significantly more prepared for this storm than Winter Storm Uri in 2021, so we hope this is not an issue. However, after that storm, we modified the design of the City’s new water treatment plant to install a backup generator. In case of a power loss, this generator will automatically start and power the treatment plant as long as necessary. Furthermore, our intake pumps at College Lake are operational and ready to deliver raw water if power at Lake Stamford is interrupted.
City staff and public works crews have spent this past week checking these matters, making other winterization preparations, and preparing equipment for work in cold weather. We expect water leaks will occur as the thawing process commences and the ground shifts. Our people are ready to act as needed.
Earlier today, I drove many streets and all the roads in and out of town. They are drivable with care but quickly become treacherous beyond 30 mph. If you must travel, please be extremely cautious. I found certain areas to be extremely slick, including the turns at the square, North Swenson near Hop In, and the overpasses on 277.
TxDOT crews worked hard to pre-treat all the state highways, but yesterday’s rain followed by freezing rain and snow, followed by brutal cold is going to make it icy regardless. I know those crews are still working and will improve conditions as much as possible, but more snow and ice is projected for tonight.
I know that many stores and restaurants are closed, but some remain open to help you if needed.
Be careful, stay warm, make your best menudo or chili, and check on your neighbors! I’ll update if and as needed.
James M. Decker
Mayor of Stamford, Texas
This notification was posted by City of Stamford. City of Stamford is solely responsible for this notification and unless specifically indicated, no other community or individual utilizing Savvy Citizen is sponsoring, responsible for, or endorsing this notification.
