Winter emergencies can arrive quickly, and being prepared can make all the difference. As temperatures drop in Austin, it’s important to know how to stay safe, informed, and ready for changing conditions — whether you’re on campus, at home, or traveling. This guide brings together essential winter weather tips, resources from UT Austin, and important steps English Language Center students can take to receive timely alerts.
Winter Weather: Stay Informed
The UT Austin Office of Security & Emergency Management closely monitors weather forecasts that could create hazardous travel conditions or disrupt campus operations. As predictions become more specific, the team evaluates whether schedule changes are needed and communicates any updates promptly to the campus community.
While forecasts develop, take proactive steps to prepare for winter weather. Keep an eye on conditions — especially if you plan to travel — and stay aware of potential impacts in your area.
To receive real-time updates:
- Sign up for Remind to get alerts.
- Watch the UT Emergency Alerts page.
- Check the weather and road conditions before you travel.
Sign up for Emergency Alert Messages for ELC Students
To receive emergency messages specific to English Language Center students, sign up for Remind following the instructions below.
For Smartphone Notifications
- Open your web browser.
- Visit rmd.at/utenglish (will link to https://www.remind.com/join/utenglish).
- Follow the instructions to sign up.
- Download the Remind app.
- For iOS, use the Apple App Store.
- For Android, use the Google Play Store.
For Text Notifications
- Text 81010 or (619) 618-2041.
- Send message that says: @utenglish.
For Email Notifications
- Visit http://rmd.at/utenglish.
- Sign up for email notifications.
City of Austin Alerts
When the University is closed, the City of Austin will also likely be impacted by power and/or water outages.
- Visit the City of Austin Public Health Emergencies website to download alert apps for your smartphone, along with materials to help you prepare for an emergency.
- Sign up for emergency alerts with Warn Central Texas, an emergency notification system for residents of central Texas. Disaster or public safety alerts are sent by phone, email, or text.
Personal Preparedness
Winter weather can disrupt daily routines, travel plans, and even essential services. Taking simple steps now can help you stay safe, warm, and ready for unexpected conditions. The guidance below outlines what to wear, how to protect yourself outdoors, and what to watch for around your home so you can confidently navigate cold weather throughout the season.
- Keep emergency supply kits in your home, workspace, and car so you’re prepared wherever you are.
- Dress for the cold: Wear a tightly woven, wind-resistant coat or jacket with light, warm layers underneath. Add mittens or gloves, a hat that covers your ears, a scarf, and waterproof boots to protect exposed skin and retain heat.
- Stay safe when working outdoors: Wear at least three loose-fitting layers and insulated gloves and boots. Try to stay dry and pack extra clothing — moisture quickly increases heat loss. Monitor your own condition and that of co-workers, take frequent warm-up breaks, and stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Remember the “4 P’s of Winter Preparedness”: People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants. All are vulnerable during freezing temperatures. Download the 4 P’s fact sheet for more guidance.
- If you encounter icy patches, sprinkle cat litter, salt, or sand to melt the ice and improve traction.
- Ensure that you have a working carbon monoxide detector at home, especially when using alternative heating sources, and operate all heating devices safely.
Build Your Emergency Supply Kit
The Office of Emergency Management created a basic Emergency Supply Kit template that you can download to assist you in creating your own emergency supply kit for you and your family.
Some basic supplies include:
- Basic first aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Physical map of your area
- Extra cash, spare clothes, and blankets
- Spare car and house/apartment key
- Family and emergency contact phone numbers
- One gallon of water per person per day
- Copies of important personal documents
- Cellphone, charging cable, and portable battery charger
- Flashlight and batteries
- 7-day supply of any prescribed medications, plus sanitation and hygiene items
- 7-day supply of nonperishable food and a can opener
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio)
Check Local Weather Conditions
- Receive weather updates by UT Austin’s Incident Meteorologist, Troy Kimmel, including radar and forecasts.
- Check the Local National Weather Service (NWS) website for the Austin and San Antonio area for the latest updates.
- Explore the NWS 7-Day Forecast.
- Stay updated with Local NWS Threads.
- View current UT Austin weather conditions through WeatherSTEM.
Winter weather can be unpredictable, but preparation goes a long way in keeping you safe and comfortable. We encourage you to review these resources, plan ahead, and reach out if you have questions. Your safety and well-being remain our top priority throughout the winter season.
This blog post was contributed by Jack Taylor, administrative associate of global engagement at the English Language Center.
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