According to a Plano news release, more than 100 calls have come into the city Feb. 3 regarding downed trees or limbs.
Winter Storm Uri damaged more than 7,000 trees in Plano last year, and over 2,500 of those trees were deemed "high priority" by the city for removal. Plano sent letters to homeowners with those trees and around 60% were removed, according to the city release.
City officials said the remaining trees and limbs are at greater risk of breaking during this year's winter weather.
The forecast calls for continuing low temperatures through Feb. 5. The cold weather combined with gusty winds will increase the chance of tree breakage, the release states.
As of 2:30 p.m., the city reported one traffic accident. According to its reports, Plano residents, for the most part, are staying off the roads, in part due to the cancellation of Plano ISD classes and activities. Crews are still treating the streets with a salt and sand mixture.
The Plano Animal Shelter closed to the public at 1 p.m., though officers are on duty to continue caring for the animals. If residents know of an animal being kept outdoors without appropriate shelter, the city advises they call Plano Animal Services at 972-769-4360.
Plano officials said they will re-evaluate the situation the morning of Feb. 4 to determine whether conditions will allow city services to be provided.
Original post at 11:31 a.m.
The city of Plano has closed a number of facilities and altered city services due to the winter storm that is affecting most of North Texas.
The city is providing live updates on its website and social media pages.
As of 9:30 a.m., Plano City Hall will remain open, but all city recreation facilities and public library locations will remain closed Feb. 3. Trash collection services have been canceled for Feb. 3 as well and will be re-evaluated for Feb. 4, the city’s website states.
City officials are asking residents to look out for downed tree limbs due to residual damage from last year’s winter storms. According to a city spokesperson, the city had responded to more than 30 calls regarding downed tree limbs by 9 a.m. on Feb. 3.
According to a city news release, The Salvation Army reported it had 105 people that stayed at the Plano Overnight Warming Station last night. The facility is located at 3528 14th St., Plano.
Officials are asking residents who see a downed tree limb to call the nonemergency line at 972-424-5678. If the tree is small and can be moved safely, the city is asking residents to move it so it is not blocking access for emergency services.
If anyone comes across a downed power line, city officials are asking residents to stay away and call 911 immediately. More information on reporting power outages can be found on the city’s website.
Plano ISD and other surrounding school districts have all announced closures for Feb. 3 and Feb. 4. Collin County Meals on Wheels is also not making deliveries Feb. 3 or Feb. 4.
Updates and additional tips for dealing with the winter storm can be found on the city’s website.
