With a chill set to sweep through San Antonio, city officials have released details of their winter weather response plan, urging residents to prepare for the impending cold snap. The National Weather Service forecasts a plunge in temperatures starting Saturday, which is expected to persist into the following week. In anticipation, San Antonio has reminded its citizens to look after the "Four Ps": People, Pets, Plants, and Pipes—a checklist aimed at ensuring they cover all bases in staying safe and warm, as per the City of San Antonio.
The city's Department of Human Services (DHS), in response to the cold forecast, is coordinating with various community partners to provide additional temporary overnight shelter space for those without homes. Locations such as the City of San Antonio Bode Community Center and Haven for Hope will serve as refuges from the freeze, according to a recent press release from the City of San Antonio. In a bid to further aid those affected by the cold, the Community Connections Hotline will extend its hours, offering around-the-clock support from Saturday afternoon through the last night of forecasted freezing conditions.
For residents seeking daytime respite from the cold, various city libraries, including the Bazan Branch Library and Central Library, among others, will function as warming centers with extended hours. These are listed on the Office of Emergency Management's website, directing San Antonians to the necessary comforts during this icy spell. Moreover, VIA public transportation will afford fare-free travel to and from these locations today and tomorrow, so accessibility won't hinder anyone seeking shelter or warmth.
Rental property owners are reminded to keep their premises up to par with the San Antonio Property Maintenance Code to ensure heating systems operate effectively, maintaining a minimum indoor temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit. To report any suspected violations, residents can make a call to the city's 311 service. Additionally, resources such as emergency notifications and a Winter Preparedness Guide can be found online for those who like to stay informed and ready for what Mother Nature has in store. As San Antonio braces for the cold front, these measures are a testament to the city's commitment to safeguarding its inhabitants from the winter's harsh grasp.
