Austin weather: Emergency responders provide cold weather tips, supplies | FOX 7 Austin

Austin weather: Emergency responders provide cold weather tips, supplies

Temperatures in Central Texas are expected to drop drastically next week. 

Most people are not ready to handle extreme temperatures and their aftermath. However, knowing how to respond in situations like pipes bursting or power outages will save you and your wallet. 

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What we know:

The Homeland Security Emergency Management, or HSEM, hosted its monthly event at the John Gillum Branch Library in North Austin on Wednesday to offer guidance to the community in case disaster strikes. 

"We believe a prepared community is a resilient community," said David Wiechmann. "If something were to happen, if there's a disaster that strikes, you're the help until the help arrives."

"So having a supply kit on hand, having a plan, knowing how to shut off your water in case the pipes are going to freeze, how to turn off the gas if you need to in your home, and those are sort of the things that we try to teach people," said Wiechmann. 

Local emergency responders, including members from Austin Energy, the fire department, and city water, were on site to share advice. 

They all had booths in the library where they handed out information flyers and answered any questions people might have about safety. 

"We're trying to preach emergency preparedness and teach the community about the four steps of emergency preparedness: make a plan, build a kit, know your neighbor, and stay informed," said Wiechmann. 

When will the cold front come to Austin?

Timeline:

A strong cold front is expected to hit Central Texas next week.

FOX 7 Austin Chief Meteorologist Scott Fisher said there will be a strong wind out of the north, making it feel like it is in the 20s and 30s outside all day. This cold air mass will stay with us into next week.

The low on Sunday, Jan. 19, will be only 30 degrees.

There is a 20 percent chance of precipitation on Monday.

The Source: Information from interviews conducted by FOX 7 Austin's Katie Pratt

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