Unprecedented. Historic. Never-before-seen. We have grown as tired of writing these words over the past 12 months as you are of reading them.
If you live in North Texas, it’s not news to you that yet another major event has occurred in the span of just under a year: a snowstorm that has brought the Dallas area’s lowest ever recorded temperatures. Plano is covered in snow, and while the sight is quite beautiful, it is also reason for alarm for many as power outages have affected thousands across the city.
If you are in need of resources to help stay warm or get access to a hot meal or electricity in Plano, here are some options. We will continue updating this list throughout the week.
Plano Overnight Warming Station at Salvation Army
The Plano Overnight Warming Station (POWS) at 3528 E. 14th Street will be open as long as temperatures are below freezing. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. This center is a continuing collaboration between Salvation Army and the Collin County Homeless Coalition. Anyone who comes to the warming station should follow social distancing protocols. Pets are not allowed. A meal will most likely be provided, but may not be a hot meal.
Emergency Warming Station at Grace Church
The City of Plano has partnered with Grace Church to open this temporary emergency warming center to the public this morning as power outages and dangerously cold temperatures continue. The station is located at 3301 Preston Road. It will be open around the clock until Thursday evening. Anyone who comes to the warming station should follow social distancing protocols and bring their own blankets, water and snacks. Pets are not allowed.
Emergency Warming Station at Sent Church
Sent Church is opening an emergency warming center to the public at 3701 W. Spring Creek Parkway. The warming center will be open 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Tuesday. Check the church’s social media for updates on hours the rest of this week. Phone chargers, coffee, individually wrapped snacks, limited meals and children’s activities will be available. Anyone who arrives at the station is encouraged to bring additional snacks, blankets and water. Temperature screening will take place at the door and COVID-19 safety protocols will be enforced. Pets are not allowed.
Warming Station at Collin County Chinese Fellowship Church
Collin County Chinese Fellowship Church at 4500 McDermott Road is setting up a warming center from 10 a.m to 6 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday, Feb. 17-18. Hours may be extended. Water, electricity and free Wi-Fi are provided. Anyone who chooses to come to the warming center is required to follow all COVID-19 safety protocols. Pets will not be allowed.
Warming Center at Islamic Association of Collin County
Islamic Association of Collin County at 6401 Independence Parkway operates a 24-hour warming center. Anyone who chooses to come to the warming center is required to follow all COVID-19 safety protocols. Bring blankets, water and snacks with you. Pets will not be allowed.
Hotels
Some Plano hotels are accepting reservations if you are without power and need a warm place to stay. Visit Plano will be constantly updating this list of local hotels that have power and rooms available on their website, but it’s recommended to call before heading over to make sure there are still vacancies.
Hot Meals
As many are facing the reality of day two or three without a hot meal, a few Plano restaurants are open with adjusted hours to serve customers without power. We have created a running, crowd-sourced list on our Plano Foodies Facebook group of what’s open, but please call before driving that way.
City-wide Closures
The City of Plano will be posting any updates to city-wide closures here.
How to Shut Your Home’s Water Off
The City of Plano is receiving an extremely high number of service calls to shut water off. The sooner the water is shut off, the less damage you may experience. Learn how to shut the water off here.
Conserve Water
North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) and the City of Plano are experiencing water demands that are above system capacity. Homeowners should consider all measures to reduce water usage, but continue to let faucets drip slowly to prevent frozen pipes. Delay using water for laundry or dishes, and take short showers, not baths. Any customers found using irrigation systems will have their irrigation system shut off and will be assessed fines. Plano water is still safe to drink and boiling is not needed at this time.
Texans can find more details about community resources and warming centers in their area by calling 877-541-7905 or 2-1-1, the state’s free 24-hour helpline.
