The City of Midland has advised residents to take precautions to protect their pipes during the current cold weather period.
In a February 19 Facebook post, the city said that the risk of frozen pipes exists as temperatures drop. Consequently, it provided tips to prevent unexpected damage.
According to the city's guidance, residents are instructed to let their faucets drip, with running water helping to avert freezing. Additionally, cabinet doors should be left open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes. Any exposed pipes should be wrapped with insulation or towels. Outdoor hoses must be disconnected, and outdoor faucets must be covered.
The city also noted that four "cold weather warming centers" are available for residents. These facilities include Breaking Bread Kitchen at 410 E. Florida Ave., Salvation Army of Midland at 600 E. Wall St., Midland Soup Kitchen Ministry at 1401 Orchard Ln., and the City of Midland Parks and Recreation.
Midland Times reported that the National Weather Service (NWS) has placed much of the Permian Basin under an extreme cold warning. The forecast for Midland includes wind chills ranging from -5 degrees to 0.