Notice to Oil & Gas Operators

Winter Weather Outlook

The National Weather Service is predicting a significant winter event in Texas this week. Arctic air, which is expected to arrive Wednesday morning, will blanket most of the state and will include temperatures below freezing from the Panhandle through the Eagle Ford. Low temperatures will be in the single digits for the Panhandle and parts of West Texas. Similar conditions are expected on Thursday morning where single digits to temperatures around 10-13 degrees can be expected in the Panhandle, West Texas, Permian Basin, West Central Texas, North Texas and Central Texas. Coastal areas will see readings below freezing arrive on Thursday morning. Winter precipitation is anticipated but current forecasts are not specific to location.

The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) advises all operators under the RRC’s jurisdiction in areas of potential impact to take the following actions:

• Monitor local, state and national weather reports for updates on potential severe weather impacts;
• Heed all watches, warnings, and orders issued by local emergency officials;
• Secure all personnel, equipment, and facilities to prevent injury or damage; and
• Monitor and prepare operations for potential impacts, as safety permits.

The RRC maintains a 24-hour, toll-free emergency line, 844-773-0305, to report emergencies, including leaks or spills and damage to gas pipelines.

In addition, the RRC advises all operators to monitor road conditions during the weather event. Operators can find weather emergency resources including road conditions, TxDOT live traffic cameras, and weather advisories and warnings at https://www.rrc.texas.gov/weather.