A “Blue Norther” Headed This Way?

Compared to what’s happening in the LA area, it’s almost unseemly to complain about our own forecast weather, but does it really have to dip down into the 30s next week?

“At least it isn’t forecast to freeze.”

Shhhh. You’ll jinx us. After all, next Tuesday’s low is forecast to be down to 33 degrees. It doesn’t take much to dip one more degree. Plus, there’s a 50-percent chance of rain.

Typically, the worst the local weather, the more apt drunks are to be on the road.

“I don’t feel the cold.”

That’s because you have half-a-bottle of 100 proof keeping you warm.

“Was that a red light I just drove through?”

I think the cop who just lit us up is going to answer that question for you.

“Oh.”

Cold weather in the RGV is when stores usually run out of space heaters for those less fortunate — the many people here who either lack central heat or can’t afford to have it installed.

That said, if you know of someone who doesn’t have one, buying one this week beats next week because there are still some stocked in the stores. Next week, depending on how cold it gets, they’ll be sold out, the shelves emptied.

“You got any more space heaters left?”

“Sorry. No. Sold out over the weekend.”

Kind of like milk and water, can goods, flying off store shelves when a hurricane comes barreling our way.

Also, top off your gas tanks.

“So we can drive to the bar?”

No, just in case you need to drive to the ER.

The Weather Service out of Brownsville is calling for a warmer, drier winter this year, but they also say there’s a chance for some really cold weather, despite La Niña bringing warmer winds, lower humidity.

According to the weather forecast for the RGV:

There is a “low, but notable chance for a hard freeze and/or some icing” in parts of the Valley between mid-January and mid-February. The probability of such an event is 20-30 percent.”

Of course, we know how unreliable the science/art is when it comes to forecasting weather.

The smartest computers in the country, mainly based in D.C., the “super computers,” cook up the forecasts, and more than half the time, or so it seems, they get it wrong, which shows how fickle Mother Nature can be.

Take Precautions

We’ve all seen this before if we’ve lived in South Texas for any length of time — what to do when cold weather is forecast.

Without further ado, here is the list of how to protect home, self, others, and last but not least, the animals we hold near and dear:

Preparing in Advance:

Stock up on essentials: Gather non-perishable food, water, medications, batteries, and flashlights.

Winterize your home: Check and repair heating systems, insulate windows and doors, and cover outdoor pipes.

Prepare your car: Check antifreeze levels, ensure tires have good tread, and keep an emergency kit in your vehicle (jumper cables, blankets, etc.).

Staying Warm:

Layer up: Wear multiple layers of clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves.

Stay indoors: Limit outdoor exposure during the coldest parts of the day.

Use space heaters safely: Keep them away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended.

Driving Safely:

Slow down: Reduce speed and increase following distance.

Avoid unnecessary travel: If possible, stay home during severe weather.

Be aware of black ice: Black ice is difficult to see and can make roads extremely slippery.

Helping Others:

Check on neighbors: Ensure elderly or vulnerable individuals have the necessary supplies and assistance.

Volunteer: Assist in community efforts to help those affected by the cold front.

Staying Informed:

Monitor weather forecasts: Stay updated on the latest weather conditions and warnings.

Follow local emergency instructions: Adhere to any advisories or evacuation orders.