Weather

The overnight windchill could put people and pets at risk of hypothermia. Plants and pipes will need to be protected as temperatures drop below freezing.

Austin saw a wintery mix overnight, and it wasn't all snow.

The Austin area is expected to get 1-2 inches of a wintry mix of snow and sleet on Monday and Tuesday. Austin ISD and other local school districts have announced closures for Tuesday.

Once the decision to open cold-weather shelters is made, the decision stands – even if the forecast changes.

After receiving community feedback, the city lowered the temperature threshold to open the shelters and started giving people experiencing homelessness more of a heads up.

Because of anticipated precipitation and lower high temperatures, the city will also keep cold-weather shelters open 24 hours starting Wednesday night.

Texas officials on Wednesday outlined preparations for the winter storm set to hit much of the state this week.

Check your car's fluids and make sure your tires have enough tread and air. Temperature swings throughout the day could also wear down your battery.

City officials said Austin is ready for the winter weather and has already opened up overnight shelters and prepared crews and others. But at home, people can do their part to stay informed and ready.

Cold weather can lead to frozen pipes and expensive plumbing bills. So while the daytime temperatures are going to be warmer, many plumbers are urging people to take a "better safe than sorry" approach and drip their faucets at night.