Austin Warming Centers & Emergency Resources
The state of Texas continues to deal with the aftermath of historic Winter Storm Uri. As thousands of residents remain without power, temperatures are expected to remain below freezing for the next few days. To help you stay safe during this time, please take note of the following services, available to Austin residents.
Warming Centers
At this time, authorities ask that warming centers be reserved for those most in need, such as those lacking proper shelter and those with medical equipment that requires electricity to operate. Currently, Austin’s primary warming shelter is the Palmer Events Center, located at 900 Barton Springs Road. Nearly two dozen additional shelters have also been set up around the area. Austin-based shelters include:
*Mendez Middle School, located at 5106 Village Square Drive
*Salvation Army Social Services Center, located at 501 East Eighth Street
*Webb Middle School, located at 601 East St. John’s Avenue
*Murchison Middle School, located at 3700 North Hills Drive
*Lee Elementary School, located at 3308 Hampton Road
Citizens who can travel to the Central Library at 710 West Cesar Chavez Street will be transported to one of these warming sites. Austin residents may also dial 211 to receive transportation assistance. For more information regarding warming centers in Austin, contact the Austin Disaster Relief Network at 512-806-0800.
Those who are seeking shelter inside a residence without power should remain in one area of the home, wearing multiple layers of loose-fitting clothing. Officials warm against seeking warmth inside a vehicle parked within a garage. Without proper ventilation, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is high. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless, odorless gas that can build up quickly when a vehicle is left running inside a closed space. Prolonged exposure can be fatal.
Residents can receive additional information on warming centers in their area by contacting the cold weather shelter hotline at 512-305-ICEE.
Additional Resources
In extreme conditions, it is common for water lines to freeze or burst. Should your pipes suffer damage, reduce water waste by using your property-owner’s cut-off valve to shut off the water supply. Notify the Austin Water Company of a water main break by calling 512-972-1000. Call wait times may be longer than usual, but customer service agents are available to assist you during this winter weather event.
The Austin Disaster Relief Network is currently offering warming centers and shelters for Austin residents, including pet-friendly shelters. These locations are not equipped with full amenities at this time—residents should bring their own supplies and bedding if possible. A full list of these locations can be found on ADRN’s website.
In addition to dialing 211 for transportation assistance, residents can call 512-974-2000 for additional information on emergency transportation options. Please be prepared to provide your name, phone number, address, number of people requiring aid and any medical requirements you may have.
