Last updated: 02/17/2021 – Please check back frequently for the latest information.

The temperatures and weather conditions in the region for the next few days are still dangerous. As temperatures are not above freezing, the public are encouraged to stay away from the streets unless strictly necessary. First responders work to answer calls as quickly as possible. However, you are also affected by the same travel conditions.

In order to relieve the demand for 9-1-1 surgeries, the Austin Police Department asked the public not to call 9-1-1 to report power outages and only call 9-1-1 if it is one Emergency is life or death. In non-emergency situations, please call 3-1-1 or use the Austin 3-1-1 App. Please note that 3-1-1 has a high call volume. If you get a busy signal, please be patient and dial again or use the Austin 3-1-1 App submit a request.

In response to the cold weather storm, the city of Austin is working with several state and government agencies to provide critical services to the community. Below are information about important resources and ways to find additional information. You can also find the latest updates in the city of Austin Twitter and Facebook.

Available resources for individuals

Cold weather shelters | Energy and strength | Water services | transport

COVID-19 | Garbage and recycling | Other resources | Latest news

Cold weather shelters

Locations across the city have opened a number of shelters and thermal centers with services for vulnerable populations.

  • Austin City 24 Hour Emergency Shelters: Please check City of Austin Twitter and Facebook Posts for the latest information on protection locations and availability.
  • The Austin Disaster Relief Network has a network of belief-based sites that act as shelters. For a full list of these locations, including pet friendly accommodations, see ADRN’s website. These locations are not equipped with full service. People accessing these locations should bring supplies and blankets.
  • Austin Independent School District (AISD) Open thermal centers that allow individuals to warm up and recharge essential medical devices that operate from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. These thermal centers are not operated as overnight accommodation and have minimal on-site resources. The latest information on the locations and availability of these shelters can be found on the AISDs Twitter and Facebook Contributions.
  • Most vulnerable populations: For those unable to seek refuge on the spot and need to travel to a shelter for medical reasons, please contact 311 or 512-974-2000 for more information or to arrange transportation. You can also send an email coaemergencyrides@austintexas.gov and include your name, phone number, address, the number of people who will need transportation, and your medical needs. Transportation resources are extremely limited and the public are encouraged to reserve this resource for our most vulnerable populations, especially those who need electricity for their medical devices.

Energy and strength

Due to the weather and the condition of the power grid, Austin Energy has had to sustain mostly prolonged outages and will continue to do so until the emergency is resolved. For the most up-to-date information, visit:

Water outages and services

Due to the extreme weather conditions, A citywide notice of boiling water was issued Due to the power outage at Ullrich Water Treatment Plant, Austin Water’s largest water treatment plant, and a water pressure drop below minimum standards. Details can be found here: Advice on boiling water and frequently asked questions

  • For the most up-to-date information on Austin Water cooking notifications and services, see Austin Water’s posts at Twitter and Facebook.
  • Call 512-972-1000 to report major water breaks. Residents can also report problems online: Online leak report form | AustinTexas.gov
  • If the pipes in your home or business have burst, stop wasting water by turning off the water at the owner’s stop valve. If you can’t find your owner’s stop valve or it’s not working, call Austin Water at 512-972-1000 for assistance turning off your water. Austin Water will still be available for customer service calls, but lines may be busy due to high demand.
  • Customers are asked to minimize the impact and stress on our water and electrical systems by delaying the use of large appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers.
  • Remember to protect your pipes. Check Here for tip.
  • For more information on Austin Water’s services, visit the Austin Water website.

Transport services

The current weather conditions have affected the transportation services. Due to the dangerous winter weather, residents are advised to stay wherever possible until the weather and road conditions improve. The public is urged to keep the streets free and safe for first responders and those seeking protection.

  • Latest information on roads and highways:
  • For Capital Metro Service:
  • For Austin Airport:

COVID-19 services

Austin Public Health (APH) is delaying appointments for COVID-19 vaccination clinics and testing centers on Tuesday and Wednesday due to bad weather and icy road conditions. The latest updates on test and vaccination sites can be found at Austin Public Health COVID-19 website.

Garbage, composting and recycling services

Austin Resource Recovery has suspended roadside pickups due to severe weather. For the latest updates at the time the services resume, see Austin Resource Recovery website or download the Recycle the ATX app to receive notifications of your roadside pickup schedule.

Other resources

Latest new releases

Feb 17, 2021 – Issued city-wide notice on boiling water

Feb 17, 2021 – City and district issue orders due to storms and new protection locations

Feb 17, 2021 – City and district pass orders due to bad weather, new protection sites