Stay updated with the KENS 5 Weather Team on this severe weather development and how it impacts you.
BEXAR COUNTY, Texas — IMPACT DAYS: Saturday, Jan. 24 through Tuesday, Jan. 27
Reason: Modified Arctic air and a chance for freezing rain, some accumulation possible.
An Extreme Cold Watch is in effect from Saturday evening through Monday morning for all of South-Central Texas including San Antonio.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has also issued a Winter Storm Watch, in effect from late Friday night through Sunday morning for northern portions of South-Central Texas including Kerrville, Fredericksburg, New Braunfels and Boerne.
The breakdown
A modified Arctic air mass moves across South-Central Texas on Friday evening, plunging temperatures well below average this weekend. This front is expected to bring wintry precipitation to some areas especially in the Hill Country.
In San Antonio, temperatures with reach the mid 30s wind chills close to 20° on Saturday. We can expect mainly light freezing drizzle/rain and sleet. There is also a chance for less than .05″ of ice accumulation on elevated surfaces in Bexar County, south of Loop 1604 and along I-10 and Highway 90.
On Sunday, more light freezing drizzle is possible in the morning. We’ll stay cloudy as highs reach the upper 30s. Monday and Tuesday, will start off very cold with low temperatures in the mid 20s before warming up to the upper 40s/lower 50s.
In the Hill country, ice accumulation may begin as early as Saturday around noon through the overnight. Total accumulation from freezing drizzle/rain and sleet may be as much as .10″ to .20″ that would cause problems on bridges and elevated surfaces.
Overall, the highest potential for ice accumulation from early Saturday through Sunday focuses on the Hill Country into the I-35 corridor, where there is a 40–60% chance of at least 0.10″ of ice. Probabilities are lower farther to the south, including San Antonio.
NWS says Texas residents should monitor the forecast frequently as changes are possible and prepare now for winter weather impacts.
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) says it is monitoring the cold weather approaching the region and will keep Texans informed on grid conditions. ERCOT officials have said the state’s power grid is ready to handle winter weather.
NWS reminds residents extreme cold could become life threatening and likely damage unprotected pipes and put livestock at risk if precautions are not taken. Dress in layers including a hat, face mask and gloves if you must go outside.
Don’t forget your pets! NWS urges pet owners to make sure to give proper care to our four-legged friends to ensure they have a safe space that is warm and dry during the winter storm.
This is a developing weather event. Refresh the page for the latest updates.