Pipe and faucet covers are essential. Yunc has another device, called a Freeze Miser, which costs about $40, and does not require electricity or batteries. It will automatically turn on an exterior faucet when the temperature starts to drop near freezing.

How will the arctic blast affect the Chevron Houston Marathon and MLK Parades? How about the return to school next week? FOX 26's Mike Iscovitz has an update:

With temperatures set to drop and winter precipitation possible, Houston residents are preparing for an Arctic blast.

Long-range models indicate the chance of another arctic blast early next week, which could bring the coldest air so far this season.

Ahead of forecast calling for a possible light wintry mix in Central Texas next week, several organizations are taking steps to prepare roads and facilities. Texas Department of Transportation crews have started pretreating major corridors.

This week in Houston, we’re tracking slightly warmer temperatures, but thanks to another round of arctic air - it won’t last long. Right now, we’re tracking another blast of arctic air headed our way on Saturday that will dramatically drop our highs from the upper 60s to a high in the upper 40s overnight.