If you thought winter was taking it easy on Texas this year, think again. A brutal arctic blast is set to hit San Antonio, bringing bone-chilling temperatures, freezing wind chills, and a real risk of burst pipes and icy roads.
How cold are we talking? Temperatures will plunge into the 20s overnight, and with the wind chill, it could feel like the teens or even single digits in some areas. That’s dangerously cold for a city that’s not used to this kind of winter weather. If you’re not prepared, now’s the time to take action.
The ‘Four P’s’—San Antonio’s Cold Weather Survival Plan
City officials are reminding everyone to focus on the “Four P’s”—an easy way to remember what’s most important when a freeze like this hits.
- People: Check on elderly neighbors, family, and friends to make sure they have heat and warm clothes. If you know someone who doesn’t have reliable heating, help them find a warming center (more on that below)
- Pets: Bring them inside. Seriously. If it’s too cold for you, it’s way too cold for them. If outdoor shelter is the only option, add extra blankets or straw to keep them warm.
- Pipes: Frozen pipes = burst pipes = a massive headache. Wrap any exposed pipes and let your faucets drip slightly overnight to keep water flowing. If you have an irrigation system, turn it off!
- Plants: Bring in potted plants and cover any sensitive outdoor plants with blankets, sheets, or even cardboard to keep the frost off.
How Cold Will It Get?
This arctic front moves in late Tuesday, and by early Wednesday morning, temperatures will be in the upper 20s to low 30s. The real problem? Wind chills could make it feel as cold as the low teens.
The coldest point will be Wednesday night into early Thursday, when actual temperatures could drop as low as 20°F. That’s dangerously cold for anyone stuck outside too long.
Warming Centers Open for Anyone Who Needs a Safe Place
If you or someone you know doesn’t have a warm place to stay, San Antonio has opened several warming centers across the city, including:
- Bode Community Center
- Corazón San Antonio
- Haven for Hope
These locations are providing a warm space, food, and basic supplies for those in need. If you need a ride or more information, call the city’s Community Connections Hotline for assistance.
How to Stay Safe During the Deep Freeze
- Use Heaters Safely: If you’re using a space heater, keep it away from anything flammable and never leave it running unattended. And whatever you do, don’t use a gas stove or charcoal grill inside—that’s a carbon monoxide risk.
- Prepare for Possible Power Outages: While there’s no guarantee of outages, charge your devices, stock up on batteries, and have flashlights ready—just in case.
- Be Careful on the Roads: Icy patches can form overnight, especially on bridges and overpasses. If you can avoid driving early in the morning, do it.
- Stay Updated: Weather conditions can change quickly. Keep up with local news, weather alerts, and city updates to stay informed.