Here are the winter storm updates that residents in the Round Rock, Pflugerville and Hutto areas should know.
Warming centers
Williamson County opened several warming centers Feb. 16. Centers are not set up for extended or overnight stays. The centers are designed for temporary warming and power recharges but are also at risk to power loss or other service interruptions.
In Round Rock, residents may head to the Baca Center at 301 W. Bagdad Ave., Bldg. 2.
The centers ask people to bring their own food, water, blankets, outerwear and chargers. For questions about Williamson County shelters, call 512-943-1700.
Several churches also opened as warming centers in the Austin area through the Austin Disaster Relief Network, including The Austin Stone-North Campus at 1150 McNeil Road, Round Rock.
Utility and city services updates
The city of Round Rock debunked a rumor Feb. 16 by emphasizing water customers would not lose water service. Residents who are experiencing water outages may call the city’s emergency line at 512-218-5555. A city spokesperson confirmed they do not have any water outages at the moment, and a lack of water is most likely a result of frozen pipes. Residents should confirm their water service is through the city as some city residents may have another provider and then may call 512-218-5555 to report an outage.
In Pflugerville, residents are still under a boil-water notice for the foreseeable future. The issue is related to a power outage at the water treatment plant.
Pflugerville has also suspended all solid waste collection services for the rest of the week and plans to resume regular services Feb. 22. The city is prepared for additional waste services and will allow residents to place additional bags and bundles curbside. City facilities remain closed to the public as well, and additional winter storm updates may be found here.
The city of Hutto issued a boil-water notice Feb. 17 as a result of the city using water from another local water system.
Schools
Round Rock ISD canceled classes Feb. 17-18 and Feb. 17 it also has canceled classes for Feb. 19. Curbside meal service has also been suspended through Feb. 22 as power outages at district facilities have led to spoiled food.
The district also rescheduled its board meeting to 5:30 p.m. Feb. 19 and called another meeting for 8 a.m. Feb. 20. Additional information is available at https://roundrockisd.org/about-rrisd/board-of-trustees/board-meetings.
Pflugerville ISD announced late Feb. 17 that classes are canceled through Feb. 19, including virtual learning. The district will also reschedule the board meeting originally set for Feb. 18. Curbside meal distribution sites are closed this week.
Hutto ISD canceled classes through Feb. 19, including any virtual learning, “due to continued uncertainties with power and water,” according to a Feb. 17 post on its Facebook page. The district reported four campuses have water damage, including significant damage at Hutto High School and Cottonwood Creek Elementary School.
City and county updates
Pflugerville Mayor Victor Gonzales announced Feb. 16 he issued a disaster declaration that will help the city with requesting disaster recovery assistance.
About 40% of Williamson County is without power, and Judge Bill Gravell reminded residents that the county does not have any control over the power. Residents could also face rolling blackouts over the next couple of days.
Travis County Judge Andy Brown issued his own warning against price gouging on items that include groceries, beverages, ice, medicine, medical supplies and lodging.
Amy Rae Dadamo, Taylor Girtman and Ali Linan contributed to this report.
