Austin weather: How to prepare for freezing temperatures in Central Texas
Freezing weather preps in Central Texas
A cold front arriving on Friday will bring arctic air and below-freezing temperatures to Central Texas, with overnight lows potentially dropping into the teens Saturday.
AUSTIN, Texas - A cold front arriving on Friday will bring arctic air and below-freezing temperatures to Central Texas, with overnight lows potentially dropping into the teens Saturday.
Wind chills could make conditions feel even colder. Forecasters say freezing rain, ice, sleet and possibly snow are not out of the question for the weekend forecast.
What they're saying:
"This weekend much of Central and South Texas is expecting very, very cold temperatures, for an extended period below freezing across much of Central Texas," said Richard McAlister, an American Red Cross volunteer.
Gov. Greg Abbott has activated state emergency response resources ahead of the winter weather threat.
"The bottom line is we know this. We know it's going to be cold, and we are expecting wintry precipitation in some form," said Wes Rapaport, of the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM).
Why you should care:
Below-freezing temperatures combined with precipitation could create messy and hazardous road conditions.
Texas DPS recommends avoiding driving, but those who must travel should ensure they have plenty of fuel and check their car batteries and tires.
"We are talking about protecting the four Ps. Now is the time to begin those implementation measures of protecting the 4 Ps; that's our people, that's our pets, that's our pipes, and that's our plants," said Rapaport.
Residents should bring pets and plants indoors, check on neighbors, and let faucets drip to prevent pipes from freezing.
Governor Abbott activates state emergency response resources ahead of winter storm
Governor Abbott has mobilized state emergency resources and agencies to prepare for a severe arctic cold front expected to bring life-threatening temperatures and hazardous winter weather to Texas.
"Take an opportunity to look out for the people in your life," said McAlister. "Check on those senior citizens in your lives. Check on the young people that are your neighbors, especially those with children. Make sure they have awareness to the coming event."
Emergency officials also recommend having a plan in place. Residents should pack an emergency kit with food, water, a phone charger, warm clothes, a flashlight, batteries, and a first aid kit.
"We need Texans to do our part as well. Pay attention, stay informed, and pack a kit," Rapaport said.
Residents can stay informed through NOAA weather radio or FOX Local or WAPP apps. You can also find a list of other useful websites below:
Track your local forecast for the Austin area quickly with the free FOX 7 WAPP. The design gives you radar, hourly, and 7-day weather information just by scrolling. Our weather alerts will warn you early and help you stay safe during storms.
The Source: Information from interviews conducted by FOX 7 Austin's Katie Pratt