Officials are making a heated facility available for residents without reliable heat. Details include timing, transportation, services and what to bring.
By Kingsville Independent News Staff
South Texas is about to get a genuine taste of winter. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Watch for the Coastal Bend from Saturday night through Monday midday, warning that temperatures may fall low enough to pose risks to people, pets and pipes.
According to the agency, overnight lows are expected in the 20s and low 30s, with wind chills possibly dropping into the teens. Forecasters say there is also a chance of freezing rain or light ice late Saturday night into Sunday morning. Even minor ice accumulation could make bridges and overpasses slick.
Kleberg County to open Warm Zone
Kleberg County Judge Rudy Madrid announced Thursday that the County will open the Human Service Building (The Honorable Romeo Lomas Building) at 1109 E. Santa Gertrudis in Kingsville as a Warm Zone for anyone needing assistance during the cold spell.
The Warm Zone will:
- Open: Saturday, Jan. 24 at 2 p.m.
- Close: Tuesday, Jan. 26 at noon
According to the announcement, the facility will provide cots and meals, and individuals should bring their own bedding. Refrigeration will be available for medications if needed.
The county will also provide free transportation to the facility by calling 361-595-8572.
Pets: Pets will be allowed only in suitable carriers. Owners must provide pet food and waste disposal bags.
Residents with questions may contact the County Judge’s Office at 361-595-8585. Judge Madrid noted that Kleberg County Sheriff’s Office, Fire & Rescue, and maintenance crews will be available for emergencies.
What to Expect (NWS)
- Cold arrives: Saturday night
- Watch ends: Monday midday
- Temperatures: 20s–30s
- Wind chills: Teens possible
- Possible ice: Late Saturday night into Sunday morning
- Marine hazards: Rough waters and small craft conditions
How to Prepare
The National Weather Service recommends using Friday’s mild weather to prepare. That includes:
Protect People
- Wear layers, hats and gloves
- Limit time outdoors during the coldest hours
- Check on elderly neighbors and anyone without reliable heat
Protect Pets & Livestock
- Bring pets indoors or into warm shelter
- Provide livestock bedding, windbreaks and unfrozen water
Protect Pipes
- Wrap outdoor faucets and exposed pipes
- Disconnect hoses
- Let indoor faucets drip lightly overnight
The agency says the cold will linger into Monday and that Sunday’s daytime temperatures may stay unusually low. Forecast confidence is increasing as the system approaches, and additional advisories or warnings are possible.