Winter weather prompts warnings and cancellations

Municipalities, schools, non-essential entities and some businesses have opted to close due to the arctic blast, expected to hit the Highland Lakes area on Thursday, Feb. 3.

Meteorologists reported that the predicted weather would bring with it freezing precipitation and icy roadway conditions.

Due to the frigid temperatures, residents could face property damage with frozen pipes and potential outages, so preparations are vital, public safety officials warn.

Marble Falls Independent School District officials announced school closures at all campuses due, in part, to the dangers of ice-slicked roads in which buses should avoid.

Officials wrote, “Due to the likelihood of difficult travel conditions created by wintry precipitation, all Marble Falls ISD operations are canceled for Thursday, February 3, 2022.

“This includes all practices, meetings, games, and other events (that day).”

The Marble Falls Public Library also sent out a note to patrons that the facility, 101 Main St., would be closed on Thursday.

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Winter Storm Warning for the area from 3 a.m. to 6 p.m. tomorrow (Thursday).

Meadowlakes city officials shared the latest NWS warning with residents “that hazardous winter weather in the form of heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet is imminent.”

NWS predicts “significant ice” with a mix of freezing rain and sleet. Accumulations of one-tenth to one-quarter inch with isolated areas receiving up to one-half inch totals.

Wind gusts could reach as high as 35 mph, placing the wind chill values into the teens to single digits.

Officials with the city of Horseshoe Bay included advice about keeping family and four-legged friends safe during freezing conditions.

“Plants, gardens, and flowerbeds should be covered to trap heat energy from the ground. Potted plants should be brought indoors,” the alert stated. “If relocation is not possible, wrapping pots with towels may help prevent roots from freezing,” according to a common sense notice to citizens.

“Pets should be brought indoors before temperatures drop to 32 degrees,” the statement continued. “Check outside watering dishes that will freeze and provide fresh water as needed.”

Other suggestions to reduce the chances for tragedy, property damage and/or harm include:

• Checking in on neighbors who may need assistance preparing for the hard freeze event;

• Covering outdoor spigots and wrap plumbing indoors;

• Temporarily shutting off water at the meter (Check for the municipal information);

• Allowing indoor faucets to remain partially (drip stream) on to avoid freezing pipes.

“We don't get extremely cold weather often here in Central Texas, but when we do it's important to make sure your pipes, plants and pets are protected during the freeze.”