Kirk Preston Watson - Mayor of Austin, Texas | Facebook
Kirk Preston Watson - Mayor of Austin, Texas | Facebook
The Austin-Travis County Emergency Operations Center remains active due to the ongoing cold weather conditions. The Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management in Austin is coordinating efforts with Travis County officials, city departments, and non-governmental organizations. Updates are available online at austintexas.gov/alerts in 14 languages.
With forecasts predicting precipitation and lower temperatures, the city plans to keep 24-hour cold weather shelters open until Friday morning. They will reopen Friday night for an overnight shift. On Wednesday night, 342 people were sheltered overnight. Current guests can stay throughout the day, while new guests can register for shelter access between 6-8 p.m. at One Texas Center.
Warming centers are available during the day for those needing temporary relief from the cold. Service animals are allowed in these facilities.
For more information, residents can call the Cold Weather Shelter Hotline at 512-972-5055. Updates will also be shared on social media platforms like Facebook, X/Twitter, and Instagram through @AustinHSEM accounts and official City of Austin accounts.
Community members are urged to take precautions to protect themselves and their pets during this period. Resources on emergency preparedness are available at ReadyCentralTexas.org.
Driving conditions may be hazardous due to low temperatures and icy roads. Residents should prepare by keeping a winter emergency kit in their vehicles.
The public is advised not to call 911 unless there is a medical or life-threatening emergency. For non-emergency services or assistance, Austinites can contact 311 to help keep emergency lines clear for urgent situations.
Residents can sign up for emergency alerts via text, call, or email at WarnCentralTexas.org.
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