How to Prepare Your Home & Property for the Late January 2026 Freeze

Lake Windcrest is facing a rare and significant winter weather event as a strong Arctic cold front moves into our area late this week. Forecasts indicate unusually cold temperatures, hard freeze conditions, and the potential for freezing rain — weather we don't experience often in our community.

A little preparation now can save you from burst pipes, property damage, and a great deal of stress. Here is a simple checklist to help you protect your home, your landscaping, and your family.

Protect Your Pipes

Wrap exposed outdoor faucets and pipes with insulation or towels. Disconnect garden hoses. On the coldest nights, let indoor faucets drip slightly and open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate around the plumbing.

Cover and Bring In

Move potted plants indoors or into the garage. Cover tender landscaping with frost cloth. Bring pets inside — if it is too cold for you, it is too cold for them.

Prepare for Power Interruptions

Charge devices, fill water containers, and keep flashlights and blankets accessible. If you use a generator, run it only outdoors and well away from windows.

Stay warm, check on elderly neighbors, and reach out if your family needs anything. Looking out for one another is what makes Lake Windcrest home.