Strong winds expected as cold front, potent upper low hit Central Texas

Morning weather forecast for January 14, 2022

Zack Shields says we're looking at record highs today and then a cold front arrives. He has all the details in his full forecast.

AUSTIN, Texas - A strong cold front and a potent upper low will change things up for the weekend. This combo will tighten the pressure gradient and produce very strong winds in the next 24 hours.

Good Day Austin Meteorologist Zack Shields says a wind advisory has been issued for Central Texas from midnight to 6 p.m. on Saturday, January 15.

Wind gusts are expected to be around 35 to 50 mph all day on Saturday. That means a very high fire danger due to the strong winds coupled with low humidity, dry ground, and vegetation.

The winds also mean high levels of cedar will be in the air.

The wind has a chance to knock down power lines or limbs onto power lines and that could lead to power outages. Austin Energy customers can report power outages and see where outages here.

FOX Weather tracking winter storm set to hit Midwest to Deep South

Some major cities will be hit with a lot of snow and ice. FOX Weather meteorologist Jason Frazer has the details.

People are advised to say off lakes as well as there will be rough chop.

The timing of the cold front is expected to be as follows:

10 p.m. to 12 a.m. (today) - Hill Country
12 a.m. to 2 a.m. (Saturday) - Austin metro
2 a.m. to 4 a.m. (Saturday) - Eastern counties

Wind chills will likely be in the 20s and 30s all day and freeze is likely Saturday night into Sunday morning.

WATCH LIVE WEATHER COVERAGE BELOW:

The Travis County Fire Marshal is also alerting residents of the potentially dangerous fire weather conditions because of the dry and strong cold front that will bring high winds and dry conditions.

"This is NOT the weekend to have any open fire, pasture burning, burn piles, or trash fires," the Travis County Fire Marshal said in a press release. "Any unattended fire could be accelerated and create dangerous wind-driven wildfires and grass fires that could threaten our homes and neighborhoods."

Residents should report any fires immediately to 911.

Stay weather aware and download the FOX 7 Austin WAPP! Track your local forecast for the Austin area quickly and get radar, hourly, and 7-day weather information just by scrolling. Our weather alerts will warn you early and help you stay safe during storms.

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