Winter Storm Alert: Protecting Your Technology Systems in Texas & Oklahoma

Arctic Blast Incoming: January 23-25, 2026

A significant winter storm is forecast to impact Texas and Oklahoma this weekend, bringing the coldest temperatures of the season. With highs reaching only 18°F in some areas and overnight lows dipping into the single digits, now is the time to prepare your technology infrastructure and smart building systems for extreme conditions.

What to Expect

The National Weather Service is forecasting hazardous conditions beginning late Friday, January 23rd, with the most severe weather occurring Saturday and Sunday:

• Temperatures: Highs of 18°F with overnight lows in the single digits (6°F–9°F)
• Precipitation: Accumulating snow in North Texas and Central/Northern Oklahoma, with freezing rain creating ice glazes along the Red River corridor
• Duration: Northern Oklahoma may see temperatures remain below freezing for over 48 consecutive hours
• Wind Chill: Dangerously cold wind chills expected through early next week

Protecting Your Low Voltage Systems

Security Cameras & Access Control

Outdoor security equipment is particularly vulnerable during ice storms. Here's how to protect your investment:

• Verify mounting integrity — High winds accompanying the front can stress camera mounts. Inspect all exterior cameras and tighten any loose hardware
• Check weatherproofing — Ensure all cable entry points are properly sealed to prevent moisture intrusion during freeze-thaw cycles
• Test heated enclosures — If your cameras have heating elements, verify they're functioning properly before the storm hits
• Access control batteries — Ensure smart locks and card readers have fresh batteries. Power fluctuations during storms can cause unexpected drains

Networking & Connectivity

Maintaining network uptime during power outages is critical for property management and resident safety:

• UPS systems — Check that all networking equipment (routers, switches, access points) is connected to battery backup with adequate runtime
• Test remote access — Verify you can access building management systems remotely before the storm in case you can't travel to the property
• Enable alerts — Configure temperature monitoring alerts on network equipment rooms to detect HVAC failures
• Document IP addresses — Have critical network information accessible offline in case you need to troubleshoot during an outage

Smart Building & HVAC Integration

Smart thermostats and building automation systems need special attention during extreme cold:

• Avoid deep setbacks — Keep heating consistent rather than programming large temperature drops, which can stress systems and risk pipe freezes
• Enable freeze protection — Most smart thermostats have emergency heat modes—ensure they're properly configured
• Set low-temperature alerts — Configure push notifications if indoor temperatures drop below safe thresholds
• Test auxiliary heat — If your system has backup heating elements, verify they function before they're needed

Property-Specific Recommendations

Multifamily Properties

• Send resident communications about storm preparation and emergency contacts
• Verify gate access systems have battery backup for emergency vehicle access
• Test fire/life safety systems and ensure monitoring services are aware of potential power outages
• Place smart irrigation systems in freeze delay mode
• Check that amenity spaces (gyms, clubhouses) have functioning HVAC monitoring

Commercial Buildings

• Review conference room AV equipment—sensitive electronics benefit from climate-controlled environments
• Ensure digital signage systems can gracefully handle power interruptions
• Verify intercom and paging systems have backup power for emergency announcements
• Test remote building access to allow maintenance personnel entry if on-site staff can't travel

Retail & Hospitality

• Protect point-of-sale and payment systems with surge protection and battery backup
• Verify background music and digital menu systems can recover automatically after power restoration
• Ensure security cameras covering exterior entrances have clear sightlines (remove snow buildup)

Emergency Preparedness Checklist

Complete these steps before Friday afternoon:

1. Test all backup power systems and verify battery health
2. Update emergency contact lists with current property manager phone numbers
3. Document critical system passwords and store securely offline
4. Charge portable power banks for mobile device backup
5. Verify remote access credentials are working
6. Download any necessary apps for system monitoring to your phone
7. Disconnect outdoor hoses and verify exterior faucet covers are in place

EIG PRO Support During the Storm

Our team will be monitoring client systems throughout the weekend. If you're an existing client and experience technology issues during the storm, contact our 24/7 support line. For non-emergency consultations about winterizing your property's technology infrastructure, reach out to schedule a post-storm assessment.

Stay safe, Texas and Oklahoma. We're here to help keep your properties running smoothly through whatever weather comes our way.

Published January 21, 2026 | Updated with latest NWS forecasts