North Austin News

The city of Austin is transitioning from emergency response to recovery following Winter Storm Heather, which brought below-freezing temperatures and dangerous weather conditions. While the worst of the storm has passed, the city continues to urge residents to take precautions and protect themselves and their property.

Austin Homeland Security and Emergency Management Director Ken Snipes expressed gratitude for the coordination of all partners in emergency management and public safety. He stated, "The City has recovery resources and tips online at austintexas.gov/recovery for anyone needing repairs or assistance with their water, power, and more."

In addition to physical recovery, the city is emphasizing the importance of mental health during the recovery process. The emotional toll of a disaster can be overwhelming, and the community is encouraged to follow mental health guidance provided by FEMA.

As the recovery efforts continue, the city is dealing with a surge in calls regarding broken water pipes and alarm activations. Residents are advised that there may be a delay in responding to non-life safety issues as emergent situations are prioritized. Austin Water's 24-Hour Dispatch Team is available to assist with water-related concerns.

Residents are also urged to check their pipes for areas that may be frozen and thaw them properly and slowly. Austin Water provides instructions on how to locate and thaw frozen pipes on their website.

Emergency repairs on properties will be permitted and inspected retroactively to ensure safety. The City's Development Services Department will work with homeowners, business owners, and contractors to facilitate the necessary repairs.

Warming centers and shelters are available for those in need of a warm place to stay. Libraries and recreation centers are serving as warming centers during normal business hours, while Cold Weather Shelters remain activated overnight. Austin Resource Recovery has resumed normal operations, and Austin Energy is monitoring grid conditions to respond to any power outages.

The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains activated, and the city and county's emergency management departments continue to monitor conditions. Updates regarding the winter weather event can be found on the City of Austin's Alerts Page in multiple languages.

As the winter season continues, the city encourages residents to stay prepared for future inclement weather events. Emergency Preparedness Pop-Up events are being held to provide information and resources to the community.

For more information and updates, residents can visit the City of Austin's website and social media pages, including Facebook and Twitter accounts of the City of Austin, Austin Homeland Security & Emergency Management, Austin Energy, and Austin Water.

The recovery process is underway in Austin, as the city shifts its focus from emergency response to repairing and assisting residents affected by Winter Storm Heather. With the coordination of various partners, the city is providing resources and tips for those in need of repairs or assistance. Mental health is also a priority during this time, as the emotional toll of a disaster can be significant. The city is urging residents to take care of themselves and seek guidance from FEMA. As the recovery continues, the city is addressing issues such as broken water pipes and providing instructions on how to thaw frozen pipes. Emergency repairs are being permitted and inspected retroactively to ensure safety. Warming centers and shelters are available for those in need of a warm place to stay. Austin Resource Recovery has resumed normal operations, and Austin Energy is monitoring grid conditions to respond to any power outages. The Emergency Operations Center remains activated, providing updates and assistance to the community. The city encourages residents to stay prepared for future inclement weather events and attend Emergency Preparedness Pop-Up events for more information. For the latest updates, residents can visit the City of Austin's website and social media pages.