North Austin News

Jan 16 2024

While the worst of the weather from this most recent winter event has passed, the danger of below freezing temperatures continues to affect Austinites. Please continue to protect the four Ps: People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants while also checking on your neighbors.  

According to the National Weather Service, the Hard Freeze Warning and Wind Chill Advisory remain in effect through 10 a.m. on Wednesday. It is advised to take precautions by limiting time outdoors and dressing in layers or staying covered as much as possible.

City of Austin and Travis County leadership held a news conference at 11 a.m. on Tuesday to provide an update to the community on winter weather response. A recording of that press conference is available now in English and Spanish on ATXN’s webpage.

Warming Centers and Shelters

Libraries and recreation centers are open as warming centers during normal business hours. For a map of all warming centers, visit AustinTexas.gov/Alerts. Cold Weather Shelters remain activated until Wednesday morning for those needing a warm place to stay overnight. More than 600 people used these shelters on Monday night. Anyone in need of overnight shelter may register from 6-8 p.m. at One Texas Center (505 Barton Springs Road). For shelter after 8 p.m., contact Austin 3-1-1 or 512-974-2000 to request assistance.

As a reminder, Austin Parks and Recreation Department’s programs are canceled through Wednesday morning at some locations. The City encourages checking the department's website before heading to a location.

Repairs and Permits

As temperatures begin to warm up, it is important for everyone to check their water pipes for areas that may be frozen and thaw them properly. AustinWater.org provides complete instructions on how to locate and thaw frozen pipes. For issues with a suspected damaged meter, call Austin Water dispatch at 512-972-1000.

The City’s Development Services Department is working retroactively with homeowners, business owners, and contractors to permit and inspect emergency repairs to ensure work was completed safely. Code Compliance inspectors are also following up on Austin 3-1-1 requests to work with property representatives to get their properties up to code as quickly as possible.

Power Supply

Austin Energy is closely monitoring the winter weather and staying in close contact with the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). Austin Energy has crews on standby 24/7 to respond immediately to power outages. Conservation is encouraged to save energy and stay warm, such as lowering thermostats by a few degrees, using fireplaces instead of turning up the thermostat, keeping doors and windows closed, and switching the setting on ceiling fans.

Emergency Operations

The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains active and both the City and County’s emergency management departments continue to monitor conditions from the EOC along with other departments and non-government organizations that assist with emergency response.

Updates regarding this winter weather event are available at AustinTexas.gov/Alerts in 14 different languages. For assistance, call 311, or 512-974-2000, or use the Austin 3-1-1 mobile app. Important websites and social media accounts for relevant information and updates are provided by the City of Austin, Austin Homeland Security & Emergency Management, Austin Energy, and Austin Water.

In conclusion, as the winter weather continues to impact Central Texas, it is crucial for residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves, their pets, and their property. The City of Austin and Travis County are working diligently to provide resources and support to those in need. Stay updated through official channels and follow the advice and guidelines provided by local authorities.