Central Texas is preparing for an upcoming winter storm, and we know these conditions can be stressful—especially when temperatures drop quickly and road conditions change. At Goodwill Central Texas, our priority is making sure our community has the information and resources needed to stay safe, warm, and informed.
Below are important updates, local resources, and preparedness tips to help you and your loved ones through the weekend.
City of Austin Cold Weather Shelters Are Open
City of Austin has activated Cold Weather Shelters from Friday, January 23, through Sunday, January 25. Shelters will remain open throughout Saturday and Sunday, meaning guests will not need to leave overnight and are encouraged to stay for the duration of the cold weather event.
Shelter Registration
- Location: One Texas Center (OTC), 505 Barton Springs Road
- OTC serves as the central embarkation point for overnight shelter.
Transportation to OTC
Bus routes serving One Texas Center include 1, 7, 10, 20, 30, 105, and 801.
Anyone who needs transportation to the shelters but cannot pay the bus fare will still be provided a ride.
Cold Weather Shelter Hotline
For additional information, call 512-972-5055.
Emergency Response Resources Activated Across the State
On January 20, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced that he instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources ahead of the impending winter storm.
From the Texas Department of Transportation pre-treating and treating roadways to the Texas National Guard being on hand to help stranded motorists, you can see a list of the response resources being deployed across the state here.
Check Road and Transit Conditions Before You Travel
Winter weather can change quickly, and travel conditions may be affected.
- Road conditions: Visit DriveTexas.org for real-time updates on highways and road closures.
- Bus riders: Check CapMetro.org/alerts for the latest route and service updates before heading out.
Winter Weather Preparedness Tips
Taking a few steps now can help reduce risk during freezing weather:
- Bring pets indoors when possible
- Avoid unnecessary travel if roads are icy
- Dress in warm layers, including hats and gloves
- Keep phones charged and emergency contacts handy
- Check on neighbors, older adults, and anyone without reliable heat
- Keep a small emergency kit with bottled water, snacks, blankets, and a flashlight
- Consider filling a bathtub in your home with water before the storm for flushing and bathing in case you lose running water
For more guidance, review these Winter Weather Preparedness Tips to help you plan ahead.
You can also visit tdem.texas.gov/warm to find warming center locations throughout Texas and see more tips on preparing for and dealing with the storm at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
Winter storms can be challenging, but you’re not alone. Goodwill Central Texas encourages everyone to use available resources, stay informed, and look out for one another during this cold-weather event.
Please stay safe, stay warm, and check back for updates as conditions change.
