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Austin-Travis County Emergency Operations Center Activated in Response to Winter Weather Snap

The Austin-Travis County Emergency Operations Center (ATCEOC) is actively responding to the recent cold winter weather snap. In coordination with Travis County officials, various City service departments, and non-governmental organizations, Austin’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) is managing the response efforts. Critical updates will be available online in 14 languages at austintexas.gov/alerts.

With the forecast predicting precipitation and lower temperatures, as well as a potential hard freeze on Friday night, the City has scheduled the operation of 24-hour cold weather shelters until Friday morning, with plans to reactivate them for an overnight shift on Friday night.

On Wednesday night, the City provided shelter to 342 community members. Current guests are welcome to remain in the facilities throughout the day, while new guests will be able to access overnight shelters by reporting to One Texas Center at 505 Barton Springs Rd between 6-8 p.m. for registration and transportation.

Warming centers are available throughout the day for those seeking a temporary reprieve from the cold. Service animals are allowed in City facilities.

For additional information, call the Cold Weather Shelter Hotline at 512-972-5055.

Updates will be posted on the HSEM social media accounts on Facebook, X/Twitter, and Instagram, as well as on official City of Austin social media accounts. Community members are encouraged to follow their preferred local news media for the latest information. HSEM will ensure reporters have up-to-date information for the public.

Residents are advised to take necessary actions to protect themselves and their household members, including pets, during this weather event. For more information on preparing for and recovering from emergencies, visit ReadyCentralTexas.org.

On the Road

Driving in low temperatures, ice, and wintery weather can be hazardous. Before heading out, be sure to:

• Approach intersections with caution and treat dark signals as all-way stops.
• Check for updated weather conditions.
• Avoid bridges and overpasses.
• Check tire pressure and tread.
• Ensure windshield wipers and lights are functioning.
• Keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle, including:
• Jumper cables
• Flares or reflective triangle
• Ice scraper
• Car cell phone charger
• Cat litter or sand for better tire traction

At Home

Remember the Four Ps: People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants.

• People: Dress warmly for outside activities and avoid using ovens, grills, or any gasoline-, propane-, or charcoal-burning devices to heat your home due to carbon monoxide risks.
• Pets: Bring your pets inside.
• Pipes: Insulate or cover exposed pipes, turn off outside faucets, drip one faucet if necessary, and know the location of your water main shutoff.
• Plants: Cover your plants or bring them indoors.

Safely Heating Your Home

• Space heaters need space—keep them at least three feet away from anything that can burn.
• Ensure your central heating system is up to date and consider having it inspected and serviced.
• Never use kerosene or gas heaters in enclosed spaces.
• Avoid using internal combustion engines inside to prevent carbon monoxide hazards.
• Do not use your oven to heat your home.

When to Call 911

Only call 911 for medical or life-threatening emergencies. For non-emergency services, Austinites can call 311. Keeping 911 lines clear for emergencies will help the City properly dispatch first responders and emergency personnel.

Sign up for emergency alerts via text, call, or email at WarnCentralTexas.org.