Austin, Texas – Travel across Central and South Central Texas could become dangerous starting early Saturday as freezing rain spreads across the region, bringing the threat of ice-covered roads, power issues, and dangerously cold temperatures through the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service office in Austin and San Antonio, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 6 a.m. Saturday through noon Sunday for much of the Hill Country and I-35 corridor. Ice accumulations between one-tenth and one-quarter inch are expected, with isolated areas in the Hill Country seeing as much as one-half inch. Temperatures are expected to drop sharply Saturday night and remain dangerously cold into Monday morning.
Communities including Austin, Georgetown, San Marcos, Fredericksburg, Kerrville, New Braunfels, and Burnet are expected to see freezing rain develop Saturday morning in the Hill Country, then spread east and south through Saturday afternoon and evening. Elevated roadways, bridges, and untreated surfaces are most at risk for icing, especially along U.S. 281, State Highway 71, and stretches of Interstate 35.
Officials urge residents to delay travel if possible and prepare for potential power disruptions. Drivers who must be on the roads should carry emergency supplies, keep phones charged, and check conditions through DriveTexas.org.
The winter storm warning remains in effect through Sunday midday, and additional advisories could be issued if conditions worsen.
