Central Texas Schools Prepare for Winter Weather Changes

News Summary

Central Texas is bracing for anticipated winter weather this Friday, which has prompted local school districts to adjust their schedules. Rain is expected to taper off overnight, with light snow flurries possible in the Hill Country. A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued, alerting residents to icy conditions, especially on the roads. The forecast for Friday indicates chilly temperatures and potentially hazardous travel conditions, with an outlook for a sunny weekend ahead. School officials and authorities are advising caution to ensure safety during this wintry weather.

Central Texas Schools Adjust to Wintry Weather This Friday

As Central Texas braces for some anticipated winter weather on Friday, January 10, local school districts are stepping up to make necessary changes to their schedules. The KXAN First Warning Weather team has put together a helpful interactive map and list to guide students, parents, and staff on which schools will be affected.

Rain, Snow, and Icy Conditions Ahead

It seems like Central Texas is in for a bit of a winter wonderland! Rain is expected to wrap up just before midnight, but watch out for lingering showers that might surprise you. A few light snow flurries could sprinkle the Hill Country, although they shouldn’t significantly disrupt your day. Most areas are likely to have soaked up over 1 inch of rain, with some spots even collecting more than 1.5 inches!

As the rain descends, temperatures are also taking a tumble, dipping low enough in parts of the Hill Country to touch that freezing mark. This temperature drop is creating icy pathways in certain areas, which could turn your drive into a bit of a challenge. A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for the Hill Country until 6 AM Friday, serving as a friendly reminder to be extra cautious when navigating your morning commute, particularly on bridges and elevated surfaces.

Driving Advisory and Travel Tips

Local authorities are advising drivers to be especially vigilant on the roads, particularly in the Hill Country, where you might encounter light icing. While most areas should start drying out by Friday morning, you might still see some flurries or sprinkles dancing in the sky later in the day under mostly cloudy conditions.

Friday Forecast: Bundle Up!

Frigid air is moving in! The forecast shows high temperatures hovering in the chilly 40s, but don’t let that fool you—northwest winds will make it feel like you stepped into the 30s. So, if you need to go out, be sure to bundle up! Expect clearer skies Friday night, which will lead to a more serious hard freeze by Saturday morning, with lows expected to dive into the 20s.

A Sunny Weekend on the Horizon

The good news? After a frosty Friday, we’re in for some beautiful sunshine this weekend! Saturday is predicted to bring warmer highs in the mid-50s, while Sunday could see temperatures near 60. Just keep an eye out for a cold front on Sunday that might keep things cooler across the region for most of the following week.

What Lies Ahead: A Watchful Eye on the Weather

Looking beyond the weekend, there’s talk of a winter storm developing over Texas that could leave its mark through the week. However, Central Texas is expected to dodge the worst of it, with only lower chances of significant impacts. Light pockets of sleet may show up along parts of the I-35 corridor, but don’t panic—the impacts are expected to diminish in the Austin area.

Rain and Travel Concerns

While freezing rain may see accumulation of up to 0.10 inches from Wednesday night through Friday morning, leading to some icy patches, the overall flood risk remains manageable. Expect varied rainfall totals across the region, with areas in the east potentially facing up to 3 inches, which could lead to minor flooding in some spots.

Prepare for a wet travel day this Thursday with some ponding on the roads. If you must head towards North Texas, it might be safer to wait it out until Friday when conditions are expected to improve. Stay safe and warm out there, Central Texas!