Buda issues disaster declaration and tips to protect pipes, pets, plants

Buda Mayor Lee Urbanovsky issued a local disaster declaration for the city Feb. 14 due to severe weather conditions. The order is in effect for seven days or until weather conditions clear up, according to a news release.

“I am asking all Buda citizens to stay home, if they can, throughout the duration of this winter storm,” Urbanovsky said. “Driving conditions are dangerous and we need to make sure the roads are as safe and clear as possible for our first-responders and essential workers. Please stay safe in your homes.”

Here's a look at Main Street a little earlier this evening. It's pretty, but dangerous. Stay safe at home. #BudaTX #WinterStorm pic.twitter.com/VkWnVguApj

— City of Buda, TX (@CityofBudaTX) February 15, 2021

The city said driving conditions are still dangerous despite efforts made to lay sand down on roadways, and the Buda Police Department has responded to numerous vehicle collisions.

Our Public Works crew is out clearing snow from the streets. Stay safe and off the roads if you can. #BudaTX pic.twitter.com/nApAjp9Ser

— City of Buda, TX (@CityofBudaTX) February 15, 2021

According to the release, the Buda Fire Department and emergency medical responders have answered multiple calls of residents slipping on icy surfaces and breaking bones. Ambulance responses may be severely delayed due to road conditions, the city warned.

A number of other disaster declarations, cancellations and closures have also been announced to winter weather conditions.

In a Feb. 15 tweet, the city also noted issues with the its water supply due to power loss at the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority.

Please conserve water. Due to a loss of power at GBRA of Texas (our surface water supplier), we are currently running the water system on groundwater wells with limited power supply availability. pic.twitter.com/4i8mRR6ji8

— City of Buda, TX (@CityofBudaTX) February 15, 2021

The city also issued guidance on how to protect water pipes from the freezing cold and how to respond to a burst pipe.

• Wrap and use heat tape to protect exposed water pipes.
• Drip indoor faucets overnight or when water use is minimal to prevent freezing.
• Once frozen, pipes will not defrost until temperatures rise above freezing for several hours.
• Never use a blow dryer, flame or heater to defrost frozen pipes as it can cause pipes to burst.
• Know where your water shutoff is located in case you need to turn off the water in an emergency.
• If you need assistance, contact Buda Public Works at 512-312-2876. After hours, call 512-749-0478.

Buda also listed several risks to pets left outdoors in freezing weather.

• Water bowls will freeze at 32 degrees, leaving pets without access to drinkable water.
• Without shelter, animals will struggle to retain heat because of the wind and other elements.
• Pets can go into shock, get frost bite and suffer organ failure.
• Do not leave pets in a vehicle.

Tips and tricks to protect plants from the cold are also available online.