This January had us in for a whirlwind of weather events, and it’s safe to say we are not out of the clear yet.

A massive front moving through Texas last week left those in Deer Park devastated. An EF3 tornado moved through the small Pasadena town on January 24th destroying churches, homes, and the Pasadena animal shelter. Those in other cities also felt the effects, with flash flooding and strong gusts of wind. CCISD called for early dismissal of high school students and a delayed release for elementary and intermediate students due to tornado and hail threats throughout the area.

This week, we saw more rain and icy temperatures. A wave of arctic air made its way down to Houston, and by Friday temperatures got down to the mid-30s. Northern Texas saw snow and ice that closed schools and prevented travel. 

These two major events are a reminder of safety procedures we need to follow to stay safe from future storms. For tornados, a Tornado Watch means the conditions are favorable for a tornado to form and to keep an eye on the clouds. A Tornado Warning means a tornado was identified and headed towards your area. This is when to seek shelter in an interior room with no windows. It is also important to have a storm bag prepared of water, canned goods, flashlights, batteries, and a storm escape plan. For freezes, wrap your outdoor plants and pipes as well as prepare for power outages.

Pasadena is currently accepting cash donations to Pasadena ISD Education Foundation, BakerRipley-Pasadena, and the Pasadena Animal Shelter. Volunteers are also needed to sort through donated clothes/items at Clothed By Faith (also accepting clothing donations). Another resource to donate to is the Pasadena Food Pantry. Check out more ways to help Deer Park here: https://www.pasadenatx.gov/911/Tornado-Recovery-Resources