Austin residents have been enjoying a relatively mild winter so far, but that’s all about to change. A powerful Arctic blast is set to push through the region, bringing an abrupt and severe drop in temperatures that could lead to below-freezing conditions, icy roads, and increased energy demands.
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Watch for much of Central Texas, warning that this could be the coldest weather event of the year. Governor Greg Abbott has urged residents to take precautionary measures, as forecasters predict freezing lows, potential ice hazards, and dangerously cold wind chills.
How Cold Will It Get? Here’s the Day-by-Day Breakdown
The weather shift will be dramatic, with temperatures plummeting from comfortable highs in the 60s and 70s to freezing lows in just a matter of hours.
- Tuesday, February 18: Expect a mild start to the day with highs reaching 67°F (19°C). However, as evening approaches, temperatures will drop drastically to 25°F (-4°C) as the Arctic front moves in.
- Wednesday, February 19: The cold takes hold, with a brisk, sunny day but frigid temperatures, barely reaching 39°F (4°C) at the warmest point. Overnight lows could plummet to 19°F (-7°C), making it one of the coldest nights of the season.
- Thursday, February 20: Clouds will increase, but the cold remains. Highs will struggle to reach 38°F (3°C), while overnight temperatures hover around freezing at 30°F (-1°C).
How to Prepare for Austin’s Sudden Deep Freeze
This type of cold is not typical for Central Texas, and with freezing conditions lasting multiple days, residents should take proactive steps to stay safe and protect their homes.
- Protect Your Pipes – Freezing temperatures increase the risk of burst pipes. To prevent damage, insulate any exposed pipes, let faucets drip, and keep cabinets open to allow warm air to circulate.
- Prepare for Energy Demand – The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has issued a weather watch for February 19-21, warning that energy consumption will spike due to increased heating use. While they expect the power grid to hold, residents are urged to conserve energy where possible.
- Check on Pets and Plants – Outdoor animals should be brought inside, and sensitive plants should be covered or moved indoors to prevent frost damage.
- Be Cautious with Heating Devices – If using space heaters, keep them away from flammable materials, don’t leave them unattended, and never use ovens or stoves to heat your home.
Will Austin See Snow or Ice?
While snowfall is unlikely, some models suggest the possibility of light freezing rain or sleet, especially early Thursday morning. Even a small amount of ice can cause dangerous driving conditions, so be cautious on the roads and avoid unnecessary travel during the coldest hours.
Bridges and overpasses freeze first, so even if surface roads appear clear, hidden patches of ice could cause accidents.
What’s Next? When Will Austin Warm Back Up?
Fortunately, this Arctic blast won’t last forever.
- By Friday, February 21, temperatures will start creeping back up, reaching highs in the mid-40s to low 50s.
- By Sunday, February 23, Austin should return to more seasonal temperatures, with highs back in the mid-60s.
Until then, residents should stay informed, bundle up, and take the necessary precautions to deal with Austin’s coldest stretch of winter yet.
