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An extreme cold warning is in effect for Bastrop County as a winter storm is expected to bring ice accumulation and dangerously cold temperatures.
The National Weather Service issued the warning beginning at 6 p.m. Saturday and lasting until noon Monday, Jan. 26. One-tenth and one-quarter inch of ice is expected across the area, along with life-threatening wind chills from Saturday night through Monday morning, according to the Bastrop County Office of Emergency Management. Officials warn that exposed skin could be at risk for frostbite or hypothermia, while unprotected pipes and livestock may also be vulnerable as temperatures plunge.
“Keep your safety in mind at all times,” said Stacey Osborne, community services director for the City of Elgin. “We want people to protect themselves first of all, but then we want them to be sure to protect their pipes, their pets and their property.”
Residents are encouraged to dress in layers, including hats, gloves and face coverings when going outdoors. Pets should be kept inside as much as possible, and outdoor animals should have a warm and dry shelter.
Public safety agencies are also adjusting operations in anticipation of the weather. The Elgin Police Department will bring in additional personnel, and public works crews have identified important roadways and prepared sand for icy conditions.
“Several years ago, the city council made it a priority to winterize all of our infrastructure,” Osborne said. “It’s been tested — we are ready for the storm.”
Osborne said several city facilities will be closed due to the weather. The Elgin Public Library will be closed Sunday, and the recreation center will remain closed throughout the weekend.
A warming center operated by a third-party organization will be open at 6 p.m. Saturday at Elgin Open Door Ministries, 108 Depot. St.
Residents are encouraged to avoid travel if possible, as freezing temperatures combined with precipitation could create dangerous driving conditions.
“There will be freezing temperatures and those are a bad mix for driving,” Osborne said. “If you could possibly stay home, we urge you to do so.”
In preparation for the storm, the city has centralized updates and emergency information on a dedicated landing page on its website, which officials say will serve as the primary source for real-time information throughout the weekend. That information can be found at https://elgintexas.gov/297/Emergency-Preparedness-Information.
