Austin is gearing up for a week of dramatic weather changes, with temperatures starting off mild before plunging into the 30s and bringing the possibility of freezing rain later in the week. Residents should prepare for slippery roads, frosty mornings, and potential disruptions to daily life.
What’s Ahead:
- Sunday: A warm and breezy day with highs reaching 72°F (22°C). Expect partly sunny skies and a comfortable start to the week.
- Monday to Wednesday: Cooler air moves in, with daytime highs dropping into the 40s°F (4-9°C) and overnight lows plunging into the upper 20s°F (-2 to -3°C). Skies will be mostly clear to partly cloudy.
- Thursday: Freezing rain becomes a concern as temperatures hover around 36°F (2°C). Ice accumulation could make roads and sidewalks hazardous.
- Friday and Saturday: The cold weather continues, but sunny skies return. Highs will climb into the 40s°F, with frosty mornings lingering.
Why It Matters:
This week’s weather shift could bring significant challenges:
- Freezing Rain: Slippery roads and icy sidewalks could create dangerous travel conditions on Thursday.
- Cold Temperatures: Frosty mornings may damage plants and unprotected pipes.
- Health Risks: Prolonged exposure to cold could lead to hypothermia or frostbite if you’re not properly dressed.
Warnings to Note:
- Freezing Rain Advisory (Expected Thursday):
- What to Expect: Rain could freeze on contact, creating ice on roads, bridges, and walkways.
- Impact: Hazardous driving conditions, travel delays, and possible power outages due to ice buildup on trees and power lines.
- Frost and Freeze Risk (Tuesday through Thursday):
- Overnight lows in the 20s°F could harm sensitive plants and put outdoor pipes at risk of freezing.
How to Prepare:
- For Freezing Rain:
- Avoid driving if possible; if you must travel, go slowly and use extra caution on bridges and overpasses.
- Walk carefully on sidewalks, using handrails where available.
- Keep an emergency kit in your car with blankets, water, and a flashlight in case you get stuck.
- For Frost and Freezing Nights:
- Wrap exposed pipes or let faucets drip to prevent freezing.
- Bring sensitive plants indoors or cover them with frost blankets.
- Make sure pets have a warm, dry place to stay and plenty of food and water.
- Stay Warm:
- Dress in layers and use gloves, hats, and scarves to protect against the cold.
- Limit time outdoors during the coldest parts of the day.
Stay Safe:
Austin winters can swing from warm to icy in the blink of an eye. Take steps now to prepare for freezing rain and frost later this week, and be sure to check in on neighbors or loved ones who might need assistance. Keep an eye on weather updates and stay cautious, Austin!
