Austin Area Under 'Freeze Warning'

AUSTIN, TEXAS — The National Weather Service has issued a "freeze warning" in effect for the Austin area through Tuesday morning as temperatures are expected to dip to 23 degrees Monday night.

In issuing the alert, forecasters warn that another freeze warning is possible for Tuesday night into Wednesday.

The current alert is in effect from 6 p.m. on Monday evening to Tuesday, March 5, until 11 a.m. A freeze warning is issued when significant, widespread freezing temperatures are expected. The warning also extends to San Antonio, according to the NWS.

"Freezing temperatures are expected once again tonight across much of South Central Texas," forecasters wrote. "Skies will clear tonight and winds will be lighter. With temperatures not getting out of the 30s Monday, freezing will begin shortly after sunset in the Hill Country and spread across the northwest and east by midnight."

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The entire area covered in the freeze warning will drop below freezing by morning, NWS officials said. "In addition, the light winds will lead to wind chills in thevteens across most of the area north of I-10/Hwy 90."

WHAT TO DO DURING WINTER STORMS AND EXTREME COLD

Below freezing temperatures could harm unprotected pets, plants, and pipes, weather officials said. "With the warm winter some plants have already begun to bloom, so take action to protect plants and crops from the freezing temperatures," forecasters wrote. "Also, it is recommended to dress in layers, with a wind resistant outer layer, a hat, and gloves."

The National Weather Service issued a series of recommended actions to take before and during a freeze:

BEFORE

• Before winter approaches, add the following supplies to your emergency kit:
  • Rock salt or more environmentally safe products to melt ice on walkways. Visit the Environmental Protection Agency for a complete list of recommended products.
  • Sand to improve traction.
  • Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment.
  • Sufficient heating fuel. You may become isolated in your home and regular fuel sources may be cut off. Store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.
  • Adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm.
• More:
• What to do before winter storms and extreme cold.

DURING

• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack - a major cause of death in the winter. If you must shovel snow, stretch before going outside.
• Keep dry. Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly.
• Watch for signs of frostbite. These include loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, and the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately.
• Conserve fuel, if necessary, by keeping your residence cooler than normal. Temporarily close off heat to some rooms.

But fear not, shivering Central Texans, for warmer weather is ahead. Below is the rest of the forecast through Sunday from the National Weather Service. But while we'll be out of the frigid, sub-freezing woods by Tuesday afternoon, there are (don't hate us, we're just the messengers) an increased chances for showers toward week's end (sorry).

Here's the forecast:

• Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 46. North wind 5 to 10 miles per hour.
• Tuesday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 30. North northeast wind 5 to 10 miles per hour.
• Wednesday: Increasing clouds, with a high near 56. North northeast wind 5 to 10 miles per hour becoming south in the afternoon.
• Wednesday night: A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 48. South wind 5 to 10 miles per hour.
• Thursday: A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 68. South wind 5 to 15 miles per hour.
• Thursday night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 60. South wind around 10 miles per hour.
• Friday: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 75. South southwest wind 5 to 10 miles per hour.
• Friday night: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Cloudy, with a low around 63. South wind around 10 miles per hour.
• Saturday: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 79.
• Saturday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 55.
• Sunday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 73.
• Sunday night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 54.

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