Austin Energy, schools prepare as winter weather threatens Central Texas

Austin Energy is preparing its workforce and gathering essential supplies as Central Texas gets ready for a forecast of severe winter weather, which may include freezing rain, hazardous road conditions, and possible power outages by the weekend.

Utility officials are gearing up for a significant subfreezing event as forecasts predict an 80% chance of rain from Friday night into Saturday morning, with temperatures likely dropping to around 30 degrees. This situation could potentially put pressure on the electric system.

According to Matt Mitchell, a representative from Austin Energy, the utility is actively monitoring weather forecasts and making necessary staffing and logistics adjustments as the situation evolves.

“At this stage, it’s primarily about ensuring that we thoroughly verify everything we’ve accomplished so far,” Mitchell stated. “Ensuring that critical supplies are adequately stocked, confirming that our staffing models are fully updated, and having all crews on standby as we prepare for an extended weekend and a prolonged subzero-subfreezing event.”

Mitchell indicated that the response will transition to full deployment as the storm draws near.

“Everyone needs to pitch in, as is necessary,” he stated. “The Austin Energy service territory spans more than 400 square miles.” There is much to consider and a wide array of topics to address.

The preparations demonstrate insights gained from the devastating freeze in February 2021 and the ice storm of 2023, both of which led to extensive outages and prolonged restoration efforts throughout the Austin region.

“Those winter weather events provided us with valuable insights,” Mitchell stated. “The year 2021, as you might remember, marked a significant statewide generation event.” Due to insufficient power supply across the state, ERCOT implemented rolling blackouts as a necessary measure.

The 2023 ice storm, which wreaked havoc on trees and power lines throughout the metro area, has fundamentally altered the strategies crews use for prepositioning equipment and prioritizing repairs, according to his statement.

Simultaneously, school districts throughout Central Texas are starting to cancel or adjust activities as the forecast becomes clearer.

The National Weather Service has issued a warning about the potential for hazardous ice late Friday and Saturday, which could create dangerous travel conditions in certain regions. Experts indicated that they are continuing to fine-tune their predictions regarding the duration of icy conditions.

Del Valle Independent School District has announced the cancellation or rescheduling of all activities and athletics planned for Saturday. The soccer game originally set for Friday has been rescheduled to January 22, whereas the basketball game on the same day will take place as planned.

Other districts advised families to stay updated with district communications for potential changes as conditions develop.

City and utility officials are advising residents to take precautions by charging their devices, reviewing their emergency kits, and refraining from unnecessary travel during freezing rain.

We anticipate further advisories and cancellations as the forecast solidifies later this week.

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