Austin Braces for Freezing Temperatures as Cold Front Approaches

Central Texas is facing dangerously cold temperatures this weekend as a significant cold front moves in. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a winter storm watch for much of the region from Friday night through Sunday afternoon. Austin can expect overnight freezing temperatures, wind chills in the single digits, and possible freezing rain or sleet.

Austin Prepares for Winter Storm

The cold front is anticipated to reach the Austin area on Friday night, with temperatures falling dramatically. Forecasts suggest a plunge of around 30 degrees overnight, reaching freezing temperatures by midday Saturday. The NWS predicts that temperatures will not rise above freezing until Monday.

Weather Forecast Details

Bob Ferguson, a meteorologist from the NWS Austin/San Antonio office, indicated that portions of Central Texas could experience temperatures as low as the teens. He also forecasted strong winds that may cause Sunday morning’s temperatures to feel like they are only 6 degrees. Central Texas is expected to see limited snow, with a higher likelihood of freezing rain.

• Freezing Rain Timing:
  • Northern areas, including the Hill Country, will see freezing rain by midnight Saturday.
  • Areas further south and east can expect freezing rain by dawn on Saturday.

Residents are advised to prepare accordingly. Ferguson recommends staying home if possible, dripping faucets to prevent pipe bursts, and checking on neighbors. Other resources are available for cold weather preparation, including tips from the city.

Energy Concerns in Austin

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has cautioned residents to monitor local forecasts and conserve energy. Demand is expected to rise through Sunday, but widespread outages are not anticipated, unlike in previous years. Stuart Reilly, General Manager of Austin Energy, stated the utility is ready for potential ice storms, reassuring the community that current predictions do not foreshadow severe outages.

Shelter and Support for Vulnerable Populations

Austin is opening cold weather shelters for individuals living outdoors, available from Friday night through the weekend. Chris Anderson, who oversees homeless strategies, emphasizes the harshness of the approaching elements for those unsheltered. The city’s shelter can accommodate up to 750 people. Individuals in need of shelter can check in at One Texas Center starting Friday at 6 p.m.

• Transportation Support:
  • CapMetro will offer free rides for Austinites heading to shelters.
• Warming Centers:
  • Austin libraries and recreation centers will serve as warming centers during the cold snap.

As of now, no school closures have been announced, although Del Valle ISD has rescheduled events and canceled activities for Saturday due to the forecast. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and prepare for the winter storm as temperatures continue to drop.