North Austin News

After five days of extreme temperatures brought by Winter Storm Heather, the Austin-Travis County Emergency Operations Center is supporting the demobilization of 24/7 shelter operations. The weather forecast predicts warmer temperatures during the day, allowing the Cold Weather Shelters (CWS) to reopen tonight.

During the storm, Austin Mayor Kirk Watson expressed his pride in the city's response and commended the dedication of staff members who worked over the holiday weekend to serve the community. He recognized the efforts made by the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) in facilitating a successful response to the storm.

Travis County Judge Andy Brown also praised the collaboration between City and County staff in responding to the storm. He thanked the community for staying informed on available services and tips on how to protect themselves and their property.

During the storm, the City repurposed public facilities to serve as temporary overnight shelters. Over the course of five days, a record number of 2,267 people were housed and fed at 7 shelters. The decision to open the Cold Weather Shelters is based on temperature thresholds, such as 32 degrees or colder overnight or 35 degrees with rain/wet or wind chill of 32 or colder.

As temperatures rise and facilities resume their regular services, shelter guests were provided with food and water and transported to Republic Square Park, where they could connect with local agencies and partners for further assistance.

The City partnered with the Austin Area Urban League to manage shelter operations and CapMetro to coordinate transportation. Non-governmental organizations such as the Capital Area Food Bank, Community Resiliency Trust, Urban Alchemy, and the American Red Cross provided support with volunteers, blankets, cots, hand sanitizer, pet crates, food, and water.

The American Red Cross distributed blankets, cots, shelf-stable meals, hand sanitizer, and pet crates to local shelters in Central Texas. Volunteers from the ARC assisted with the distribution of emergency supplies and responded to fires within the eight-county territory.

In addition to the Cold Weather Shelters, libraries and parks facilities continue to serve as Warming Centers during regular business hours, offering temporary relief from the cold.

The City and its partners have resources and services available to help those negatively impacted by the storm. The Development Services Department provides information on safely permitting emergency repairs for homes or businesses that sustained damage. Austin Water offers tips on thawing frozen pipes and provides a 24/7 emergency line for issues with suspected damaged meters.

It is important to prioritize mental and emotional health during the recovery stage. Austinites are encouraged to get enough rest and be aware of exhaustion. FEMA provides mental health guidance on its website.

Interim City Manager Jesús Garza emphasizes the importance of building a prepared and resilient community to better respond to future storms. As more winter weather is forecasted, he urges everyone to check on their neighbors and family who may need assistance.

As the 24/7 Cold Weather Shelter operations are demobilized, the City of Austin and Travis County are shifting their focus towards recovery. A summary of the City of Austin departments' response to the storm is available for further information.