Austin and Travis County leaders issued local state of disaster orders Feb. 4 over winter conditions.
Travis County Judge Andy Brown said in a press release that the declarations will allow the entities to continue with weather response efforts. Austin Mayor Steve Adler added that the move will allow the city to be reimbursed for storm-related costs, including for operating shelters.
“I want to thank all the community partners, emergency services personnel, and governmental entities that came together and responded quickly and efficiently to this winter weather event," Brown said.
The move comes one day after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration for 17 counties, not including Travis County.
The press release warns that with freezing temperatures expected for several more days, residents should be aware of icy roadways, fire and carbon monoxide dangers from indoor heating elements and falling ice.
City of Austin response updates
The city has closed community warming shelters, including warming centers at Austin ISD locations. It will continue to operate shelters for people experiencing homelessness will operate based on weather conditions, according to the press release.
The Austin Animal Center and public libraries will reopen Feb. 5, according to the release. An Austin Public Health COVID-19 vaccination location at Southeast Library, 5803 Nuckols Crossing Road, Austin, is also expected to reopen.
Capital Metro will return to regular service Feb. 5, after operating on a critical service schedule Feb. 4, according to the release.
Travis County update
Travis County’s COVID-19 clinics will remained closed until Feb. 7 due to the weather, according to a press release from the county.
