How to prepare for freezing temperatures in Texas
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Frozen power lines near a sidewalk on Feb. 1, 2023, in Austin. Photo: Brandon Bell/Getty Images
It's time to brace for freezing temperatures.
Driving the news: A blast of arctic air is expected to impact much of Texas, and Gov. Greg Abbott has activated state emergency response resources ahead of the possible snow, ice and freezing rain.
Zoom in: As of Wednesday, National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio forecasters say the the Hill Country into the I-35 corridor is most likely to experience the highest potential for ice accumulation from early Saturday through Sunday. There's a 40-60% chance of at least 0.10" of ice then.
- Exact ice amounts, onset and ending times, and the duration of freezing temperatures are still an estimate. Forecasters encouraged residents to continue to monitor the forecast.
Between the lines: This cold snap will not be nearly as frigid as the winter storm of 2021, which left millions of Texans without power for days. At least 200 deaths have been attributed to the freeze.
- The Electric Reliability Council of Texas, or ERCOT, said this week that they anticipate ample supply to meet demand this weekend.
Zoom in: You can prepare for winter weather by preparing your home, keeping your pets warm and inside, charging external batteries and signing up for emergency alerts.
- In the Austin area, residents can do so at WarnCentralTexas.org.
Emergency officials encourage residents to:
Assemble a storm preparation kit with flashlights, fresh batteries, a battery-powered radio, snacks, and 1 gallon of water per person — and per pet — for seven days.
- Keep cell phones charged.
- If working from home, save your work periodically and make sure your devices are on power strips.
Bring potted plants inside. Even if you temporarily put them in an unheated garage, they'll have a higher chance of survival.
Insulate exposed pipes, especially those in attics and garages, and wrap outside faucets with towels or a styrofoam insulator.
- Locate your water shutoff valve and keep it clear of debris and obstacles.
Heat your home safely. To avoid injury and illness, never heat your house with a gas oven or burn anything in a stove or a fireplace that is not vented.
- Keep space heaters away from any flammable materials, like curtains or blankets. Never place a space heater on top of furniture or near water. Do not use extension cords with space heaters.
Watch for scams. Scammers target utility customers every day, but storms, holidays and emergencies turn into opportunities for scammers because they know you are distracted. Learn how to recognize a scam.