South Texas, it’s time to take this cold front seriously. We’re talking about temperatures we rarely see in this part of the state. Right now, it’s in the low 30s, but the wind is making it feel closer to the mid-20s. If you’re in San Antonio, Corpus Christi, or Brownsville, the National Weather Service has issued a Cold Advisory, and it’s not just to warn you to grab a jacket. Wind chills this low can lead to frostbite and hypothermia, especially if you’re out too long or unprepared.
Why This Cold is Different
We don’t often get hit by cold like this in South Texas. Sure, we have our chilly days, but this one is pushing the limits. It’s already cold outside, but with the wind gusting up to 30 mph, it feels much colder than it really is. Those gusts are what really do the damage—they pull heat away from your body fast, and if you’re not dressed for it, you could start feeling the effects much quicker than you expect.
If you’re outside for too long in this cold, you’re at risk for hypothermia—a dangerous drop in body temperature. It doesn’t take hours for this to happen, either. In conditions like this, it can take as little as 30 minutes for your body to start struggling. And let’s not forget about frostbite—it’s just as serious. Fingers, toes, ears, and noses are the first to go, and the cold can sneak up on you when you least expect it.
How to Stay Safe
This weather is tough, no doubt, but there are things you can do to protect yourself, your family, and your neighbors. Here’s what you need to know:
-
Layer Up: When it comes to staying warm, layers are your best friend. Start with a base layer that wicks moisture away from your skin (like a long-sleeve shirt or thermal top). Then add an insulating layer, like fleece or wool, and top it off with a windproof, waterproof jacket. Don’t skip the layers, because that’s what keeps your body heat trapped in.
-
Cover Your Skin: It’s not just about wearing a jacket. You need to cover up as much skin as possible. Make sure you’re wearing a hat, scarf, gloves, and warm socks. If you have a face mask or neck gaiter, throw that on too. Trust me, the cold can hit hard on your face and extremities, and you don’t want to mess around with frostbite.
-
Stay Inside If You Can: If you don’t have to be outside, stay indoors. If you do need to go out, make it quick. The longer you’re exposed to this cold, the more dangerous it gets. Find a warm spot as soon as you can.
-
Check on Your Loved Ones: Make sure your neighbors, especially the elderly, and anyone who might be vulnerable to the cold has what they need. Give them a call, check on them if you can. This cold can be especially tough on young kids, older adults, and anyone with health conditions. And don’t forget about your pets—they need to be kept warm too. If it’s too cold for you to be outside, it’s definitely too cold for them.
-
Prepare Your Home: Close windows, shut doors, and if you have space heaters, make sure they’re in a safe spot. You don’t want to risk starting a fire. If you’re using a fireplace, keep it well-ventilated and make sure it’s in good working order. Also, check your heating system to make sure it’s working properly—now’s not the time to find out your heater is on the fritz.
-
Stay Updated: Weather conditions can change quickly, so make sure you’re following local news or checking weather apps to stay updated. If there’s a sudden change, you’ll want to be the first to know so you can adjust your plans.
What’s Coming Next?
Unfortunately, this cold isn’t going anywhere fast. The cold front will stick around through tonight and into tomorrow morning, and the wind will keep blowing, making it feel even colder. But don’t worry—things should start warming up by tomorrow afternoon. In the meantime, it’s crucial to stay warm, stay safe, and take this seriously.
