UT, Austin ISD Cancel Monday Classes Due to Treacherous Icy Roads
A winter storm has impacted the Austin area, leading to the cancellation of classes across multiple school districts on Monday. The weather conditions include icy roads that pose significant travel hazards. Mayor Kirk Watson confirmed a fatality related to the extreme cold, highlighting the severity of the situation.
School Closures in Austin
Austin ISD announced the cancellation of all classes and activities for the day. Other affected school districts include:
- Eanes Independent School District
- Georgetown Independent School District
- Manor Independent School District
- Pflugerville Independent School District
- Round Rock Independent School District
- Wimberley Independent School District
- Hays Consolidated Independent School District
- San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District
The University of Texas at Austin and Austin Community College have also suspended classes. St. Edwards and Concordia universities followed suit by canceling their Monday activities.
Transportation Disruptions
Over 200 flights were canceled at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport due to icy conditions on the runways. Crews are working on clearing the surfaces, but the situation remains fluid. Mayor Watson urged travelers to stay updated with their airlines.
Impact on Public Transit
CapMetro halted operations on Sunday but plans to begin limited service on Monday. A delayed start at noon will include:
- Red Line trains departing from Howard at 12:29 p.m. and downtown Austin at 12:22 p.m.
- Access trip services commencing at noon.
- Bikeshare services will remain suspended.
Power Outages and Emergency Services
Austin Energy reported fluctuations in power outages due to the storm, peaking at approximately 2,500 customers without electricity at one point. While the numbers have decreased, future outages may occur as temperatures rise and melting ice poses risks to power lines.
Cold Weather Shelter Initiatives
The city has kept its 24-hour shelters open until Tuesday morning to accommodate those in need. More than 650 individuals sought refuge in these shelters on Saturday night. Efforts are in place to provide meals to all who enter, thanks to donations from local businesses and residents.
City officials reassured the public about safety protocols at warming centers, confirming that there are no immigration enforcement operations targeting these facilities.
Weather Outlook
The National Weather Service has issued an extreme cold warning continuing through Monday noon. Residents can expect wind chills in the teens and single digits, particularly in parts of the Hill Country. Meteorologists predict above-freezing temperatures may not arrive until Tuesday afternoon.
