Winter in the Alamo City typically lasts from December through February. Even though our winters are usually mild, our city does experience extreme cold, freezing rain, ice, and the occasional snow.
The City of San Antonio has complied a winter weather preparedness guide to help residents gear up for the seasonal weather events. With our first freeze around the corner, we want to ease some of the stress of prepping for this frosty occasion. Get cozy as we break down + provide you with easy-to-access information.
Before
Winter weather can cause power + water outages, and make traveling around San Antonio and its surrounding areas difficult. Before the storm comes, here are a few tips on how to prepare:
- Create a family communications plan
- Build an emergency kit
- Rock salt and snow removal equipment
- Move animals inside
- Wrap pipes running outside or under your house in pipe insulation or rags
- Have extra blankets for warmth
- Sufficient heating fuel and seasoned wood (for those with a fireplace)
You can listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local television newscasts to get the latest information and instructions by local emergency management officials.
During
While the extreme cold is passing through, stay inside in a heated room to stay warm.
- Dress in layers and use blankets to stay warm
- Stay dry to avoid loss of body heat
- Walk carefully on snowy + icy walkways
- Cover or bring in plants inside to avoid frost damage
Pro tip: The City of San Antonio advises residents to not heat dwellings with a cook top or oven, charcoal grill, or gasoline + propane heaters indoors. These items can cause electric shock, and/or carbon monoxide poisoning.
After
As the weather passes, there might be icy road conditions so only drive if necessary — don’t forget to check for road closures. If you are heading outside, make sure to dress in warm clothing, and stay dry to prevent prolonged exposure to cold and wind.
In the event your home is damaged, no longer safe, or has lost power, public shelters and warming centers are available. You can find them by calling 311 or text SHELTER + your ZIP code (Ex: SHELTER 78230) to 43362 (FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area.
For more information about how to navigate before, during, and after a winter storm, check out these resources: