Source link : https://houston365.info/2026/02/14/how-much-ice-does-it-really-take-to-knock-out-power-in-houston/
How Much Ice Does It Take to Disrupt Houston’s Power Grid?
As Houston braces for the possibility of intense winter storms, a pressing concern arises: what level of ice accumulation is sufficient to cause power outages across the city? Recent weather incidents have exposed the fragility of Houston’s electrical infrastructure when faced with icy conditions. This article delves into how ice impacts the city’s power grid, the challenges utility providers encounter during such events, and the steps residents and officials can take to mitigate risks.
Houston’s Power Grid: Vulnerabilities to Ice Storms
Houston’s electrical network, engineered for generally mild winters, struggles under the weight of ice buildup. Even a thin layer of ice—around a quarter-inch—can add enough weight to tree limbs and power lines to cause significant damage. Since much of Houston’s power delivery relies on overhead lines, these components are especially susceptible to ice-induced stress, which can lead to snapped cables and fallen poles. The recent winter storms demonstrated this vulnerability vividly, with thousands of households losing electricity after just a few hours of freezing precipitation.
Several factors intensify the grid’s fragility during ice events:
- Proximity of Vegetation: Trees growing close to power lines become hazardous when ice-laden branches break and fall onto wires.
- Outdated Infrastructure: Many poles and cables have aged without comprehensive…
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Author : Victoria Jones
Publish date : 2026-02-14 14:08:00
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