Winter weather impacts are possible throughout the greater San Antonio area, New Braunfels and Boerne on Jan. 24-25. (Community Impact staff) (Alex Reece/Community Impact)
Editor's note: This story was updated to include more information about the winter storm warning issued to Bexar County on 1/23.
A winter storm is expected to bring potential freezing rain to the San Antonio area this weekend, as local officials urge residents to begin taking precautions for the event.
What residents should know
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for all areas north of Bexar County on Jan. 24-25 due to the potential of significant ice accretion from freezing rain and sleet.
Additionally, a winter storm warning was issued on Jan. 23 for all of Bexar County, including the city of San Antonio, due to the ice potential.
This includes all of Kendall and Comal counties and the cities of New Braunfels, Boerne, Bulverde and Spring Branch, according to the warning.
Potential impacts could include:
light to moderate accumulations of ice and sleet
damage to unprotected pipes
possible power outages
slippery road conditions
The National Weather Service said freezing rain will be possible Saturday night into Sunday in the Alamo City.
This map shows the forecast timeframe for freezing rain and sleet potential in the local region. (Map courtesy National Weather Service Austin-San Antonio)
“We want to stress that many areas will not see continuous ice accumulation during this timeframe,” the post states.
Residents are urged to prepare to protect people, pets, plants and pipes from the cold and practice safety measures when using space heaters.
Additionally, an extreme cold warning has been issued for the entire coverage area from Jan. 24-26 due to dangerously cold wind chill temperatures as low as 2 degrees below zero.
What is there to do?
According to a recent announcement from the city of Boerne, residents are urged to practice safe driving if travel is necessary and to sign up for the Emergency Notification System, Everbridge.
“City staff are closely monitoring weather conditions and will share updates on facilities, services, and events as they become available,” an announcement from the city of New Braunfels states.
The city of San Antonio’s Animal Care Services has issued a statement regarding the “urgent” need for animals to be fostered during the arctic outbreak forecasted for the weekend.
“With winter conditions approaching, immediate foster placements are critical to ensure pets are safe, warm, and protected,” the news release states.
A fostering event will be held from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 22 at 4710 State Hwy. 151.
One more thing
The National Weather Service urges residents to check in on elderly neighbors and family, and to dress in layers if outdoor travel is necessary.
To stay updated on the latest forecasts, check out the National Weather Service’s local social media pages and official website below.
