Winter Weather Advisory Issued Amid Light Ice Predictions in Central Texas

AUSTIN, Texas — A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for Hays, Caldwell, Travis, and Blanco counties until 9 a.m. Saturday due to the potential for light freezing rain and drizzle. Although the coldest days of the recent arctic blast are behind us, residents are advised to stay cautious as conditions may lead to some icy patches on roads.

The KVUE Weather Team has issued a Weather Impact Alert effective through noon on Sunday. While light icing is expected, it will not be severe enough to resemble the major ice storm that affected Central Texas in January 2023. Forecasts predict ice accumulations of a few hundredths of an inch, possibly reaching a tenth of an inch in some areas, particularly south of Austin.

“We’re not anticipating widespread dangerous conditions, but drivers should be aware of the potential for slick spots on elevated surfaces and roads,” said a KVUE meteorologist. Light icing may also occur on cars and metal street signs during the night.

Despite the cloud cover, temperatures reached above freezing throughout Central Texas on Friday, which helps mitigate significant ice build-up. However, as temperatures are expected to drop back to freezing tonight, the risk for light freezing rain increases.

A developing coastal low in the Gulf has enhanced this risk, contributing to expected wintry precipitation beginning Friday evening and into early Saturday morning. The best chances for light icing appear to be focusing on the Coastal Plains as well as southeastern sections of the metro area.

As temperatures remain at or below freezing into Saturday morning, residents are reminded to exercise caution while traveling. Forecasts indicate that temperatures could reach the mid-30s by later Saturday morning, allowing any accumulated ice to melt and transition to rain.

While precipitation totals are projected to be minimal, localized areas in Hays County may experience slightly heavier accumulations up to a tenth of an inch. The KVUE Weather Team emphasizes that the light icing expected should result in only minor impacts, advising caution while traveling on elevated roads.

In the coming days, temperatures are expected to increase, with milder weather conditions returning by Sunday. Following a cold start, highs will climb into the upper 40s to near 50 degrees and continue to rise into the 70s by next week.