January 2026 Winter Storm Recovery Information, Tips, Resources

After recent winter weather in Central Texas, many Austinites have been personally impacted. Others may be volunteering to assist with clean-up and recovery efforts. Please read below for safety tips and precautions when participating in clean-up following winter weather and other pertinent public health information.

Beware of scams! Work with your home insurance provider or landlord if you are renting to ensure repairs are coordinated through legitimate channels. If you receive a phone call threatening to interrupt utility service, prevent repairs, demand immediate payment, or request credit card or bank account information, hang up and report the incident. 

Safety After a Winter Storm

Safety measures during clean-up or debris removal:

  • Wear sturdy work boots and gloves.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water often when working in debris.

Food safety (e.g., food spoilage from power outages or flooding):

Tetanus and wound care reminders:

Disaster Recovery and Mental Health

The City encourages the public to consider their mental health and well-being during the recovery process after an emergency. The emotional toll following a disaster, not just the financial strains of damage and/or loss of your home, business, or personal property, can be devastating. It is normal to feel overwhelmed or anxious during disaster recovery, and we encourage the community to follow mental health guidance after an emergency or disaster: 

  • Get enough rest.
  • Drink plenty of clean water.
  • Eat well.
  • Be aware of exhaustion.
  • Don’t try to do too much at once. Set priorities and pace yourself.
  • Stay connected with family and friends.
  • Know when to ask for help.
  • More mental health guidance is available from FEMA.
NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) Support
  • The Austin Resilience Network (ARN) is comprised of city and community resources that equitably empower individuals to prepare for, endure, and bounce back stronger from community-wide shocks, stressors, and emergencies. The ARN is the next phase of Austin’s resilience efforts.
  • Individuals may also call 2-1-1 to request assistance through the United Way of Central Texas, which can connect you with a variety of resources through its community partnerships.
Debris Collection

Small branches, yard trimmings and leaves

Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) customers should place small branches and yard trimmings into the green composting cart, lawn and leaf bags or a reusable container and set them out on the next scheduled collection day. Small branches (no longer than five feet and no thicker than three inches in diameter) that do not fit into the green cart with the lid closed should be stacked into manageable piles no heavier than 30 pounds. ARR will collect the contents of your green cart and up to 15 extra items (lawn and leaf bags or stacks of small branches) placed beside the cart. Learn more about composting collection.

Large branches and tree limbs

ARR customers can get updates about service changes by downloading the Austin Recycles app or by signing up for reminders at austintexas.gov/myschedule. 

If you live outside of Austin city limits, please consult your city or county authorities for proper debris collection and removal processes.

Repairs, Permits, and Code Compliance

Repairs & Permits 

The City’s Development Services Department will work with homeowners, business owners, and contractors to permit and inspect emergency repairs to ensure work was completed safely. That means that if your home or business is in need of emergency repairs for your safety, work can begin immediately. Types of repairs that will require permits include:

  • Ruptured or damaged water lines
  • Main electrical service
  • Structural damage

Visit the Permits for Emergency Repairs webpage for more information. 

Code Compliance

Common weather-related violations may include no hot water, burst pipes, and cracks in the ceiling or walls. Residents experiencing a possible code violation should first notify their landlord. 

For complaints related to tenant-occupied properties, inspectors are following up to ensure landlords get their properties up to code as quickly as possible. Visit the Report a Code Violation page to learn how to report a possible code violation. 

If you live outside of Austin city limits, please consult your city or county authorities for proper code compliance and permitting processes.

Resident Resources

Homeowners Assistance

The Austin Housing and Planning Department’s home repair program can assist eligible homeowners who need repairs. Call 512-974-3100 or email the Austin Housing and Planning Department with questions about these services.  View Tips for Filing Insurance Claims (PDF) 

iSTAT for Individual Assistance

If you live in an impacted area you may be eligible for financial assistance. Use the Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT). Report damages and learn more. 

Tenant Resources 

Visit Resources for Renters to see if you qualify for tenant resources, including legal consultation, residential rental assistance, utility bill assistance, and more.  Learn how to report a possible code violation.  

Housing Assistance:

If you live outside of Austin city limits, please consult your city or county authorities for resources related to tenant resources for renters and homeowner assistance.