HAYS COUNTY WEATHER
The National Weather Service is predicting very cold temperatures for San Marcos and Hays County this weekend, beginning early Saturday morning and lasting at least through Monday morning, possibly longer.
C.J. Magnussen, meteorologist with the National Weather Service office for the Austin/San Antonio office, said freezing rain could begin as early as midnight on Friday, with accumulations possible as early as 6 a.m. on Saturday.
The wind chill temperature will likely be in the teens by Saturday and could continue to drop to single digits by Sunday morning, with air temperatures in the teens. Very cold temperatures will likely last at least through Monday morning, and could last until Tuesday.
The National Weather Service is predicting very cold temperatures for San Marcos and Hays County this weekend, beginning early Saturday morning and lasting at least through Monday morning, possibly longer.
C.J. Magnussen, meteorologist with the National Weather Service office for the Austin/San Antonio office, said freezing rain could begin as early as midnight on Friday, with accumulations possible as early as 6 a.m. on Saturday.
The wind chill temperature will likely be in the teens by Saturday and could continue to drop to single digits by Sunday morning, with air temperatures in the teens. Very cold temperatures will likely last at least through Monday morning, and could last until Tuesday.
“Basically, what’s happening is we’re going to see a front swing through from north into South Central Texas. And at the same time, we’re going to have moisture coming off of a cutoff low in Baja, California, and that’s going to help to undercut the colder air, allowing the temperatures to really fall.”
Magnussen said freezing winds could continue into Tuesday, depending on how conditions develop.
“If we get, like, a small pack further north in Texas, we could see some colder winds come off of that, and it could make our temperatures struggle to actually reach 40. There is a possibility that we could go lower on Monday. So if that happens, we could be looking at (freezing conditions) until probably Tuesday morning.”
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES RECOMMENDS THE FOLLOWING STEPS TO PREPARE FOR COLD WEATHER:
• Open Cabinets for Improved Air Circulation When temperatures dip, opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors serves a dual purpose: it allows warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, reducing the risk of freezing, and it’s a safety measure for households with children. Ensure that any potentially harmful household items are moved out of reach during this process, promoting both warmth and safety.
• Maintain a Consistent Thermostat Setting Consistency is key when it comes to your thermostat during the winter months. Keeping your home at a constant temperature throughout the day and night might lead to a slightly higher heating bill, but it acts as a preventative measure against the much more significant costs associated with repairing burst pipes caused by fluctuations in temperature.
• Lower Temperature When Away
If your winter plans involve being away from home, don’t turn the thermostat too low. Set it to no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature provides enough warmth to prevent freezing while conserving energy and ensuring a comfortable return home.
• Install Pipe Insulation Beyond simply preventing freezing, installing pipe insulation using sleeves, UL-listed heat tape or heat cable can enhance energy efficiency. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for installation, ensuring that ends are tightly butted, and joints are securely wrapped with tape.
• Drain Pool Pumping Equipment Protect your pool equipment from potential damage by draining any water within its components before freezing temperatures set in. This simple step can save you from costly repairs or replacements in the future.
• Shut Down Sprinkler Systems To prevent water within the system from freezing, turn off automatic timers, bleed the sprinkler system of water, and store outdoor hoses. Additionally, close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs to ensure that water doesn’t remain in the lines.
• Check Around the Home In addition to cabinets, inspect other unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, and cabinets under sinks. Insulate both hot and cold water pipes in these spaces using readily available materials. Remember, even a layer of newspaper can provide significant protection in areas with infrequent freezing temperatures.
Seal Off Openings and Cracks Prevent winter winds from reaching exposed water pipes by sealing access doors, air vents, and cracks. If water supply lines run through your garage, keep the doors closed during colder periods. Also, avoid blocking the furnace or water heater air vents.
DEALING WITH FROZEN PIPES: WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
If a pipe freezes, contact a licensed plumber for professional assistance. Attempt to thaw the pipe using safe methods such as an electric heating pad, hairdryer, or a towel soaked in hot water. Avoid using open flames or blowtorches, as they pose fire and carbon monoxide risks.
In the event of a burst pipe and flooding, turn off the water at the shutoff valve and promptly contact a licensed plumber for necessary repairs. Remember not to turn the water back on until the damaged pipe has been fixed. For emergency water shutoff, reach out to the customer service department for immediate assistance.
The Texas Department of Public Safety recommends avoiding traveling when sleet, freezing rain or snow is predicted, but offers the following tips for driving in inclement weather:
•Allow extra time to reach your destination. Share your travel plans with a friend or family member so someone knows the route you’re taking.
•On icy roads, drive slowly and increase the distance between your vehicle and others, as you may need additional room to stop.
•Do not use cruise control during poor driving conditions.
•Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas before you head out.
•Be aware that ice accumulates on bridges and overpasses before drivers may see it on roads, so approach them more slowly in winter weather.
•Watch for downed trees and power lines. If a stoplight is out, treat the intersection as a four-way stop.
