The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Watch for the Austin area based on forecasted cold temperatures and possible freezing precipitation.

A very strong arctic cold front is predicted to move through Central Texas starting Wednesday afternoon and evening bringing the coldest temperatures we have seen so far this winter. A wintry mix of freezing rain and sleet could occur across portions of the area by Thursday morning and possibly continue into the afternoon.

“We can see the storm clouds on the horizon, and we need everyone to ensure they are prepared,” said Juan Ortiz Director of the City of Austin Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. “The City of Austin and Travis County are preparing, but we need your help to prepare as well. Your preparations make us a more resilient community.”

It is possible that freezing rain and sleet could cause travel impacts in the Austin area by Thursday morning and continue through the day. Up to ¼ of an inch of ice is currently forecasted.

Brisk northerly winds will produce bitterly cold wind chill values Thursday through Saturday morning, ranging from the single digits to teens. A risk for hypothermia exists for those spending extended time outdoors and not dressed in layers and gloves.

We encourage all families to review their plans and ensure they have some supplies on hand in case travel is not possible during the storm. To get started with an emergency kit, click here for a sample emergency kit list in multiple languages.

It is important that the public remember the 4 Ps of cold weather.

1. Check on vulnerable people
2. Bring pets inside
3. Cover plants
4. Insulate outdoor pipes and faucets

Additionally, if you will be out in the cold weather later this week take precautions.

• Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing.
• Wear a hat.
• Try to stay dry and out of the wind.
• Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold.
• Cover your hands with mittens or gloves that are snug at the wrist

For regular updates you can visit AustinTexas.gov/Alerts for information in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, Korean, Burmese, Urdu, Arabic, French, Hindi, and Pashto. You can also text ATXWEATHER to 888-777 for updates in English or ATXCLIMA to 888-777 for updates in Spanish.