Cold Air Grips the Region
The National Weather Service has reported a significant drop in temperatures across the region, with wind chills plummeting to the low 20s this morning. Brisk northerly wind chills are expected to persist through the day, keeping conditions chilly. As the evening approaches, clear skies will usher in widespread below-freezing temperatures. A Freeze Warning and Cold Weather Advisory have been issued from midnight to 9:00 a.m. Monday, preparing residents for a frosty night ahead.
Rain and a Wintry Mix Expected
As Monday progresses, light rain and drizzle will move into the area, with daytime highs in the 40s ensuring precipitation remains as rain. However, colder air settling in by Monday night will bring a mix of sleet, snow, and ice to South Texas. Subfreezing temperatures combined with cooler air aloft could lead to hazardous road conditions and potential ice accumulation.
The National Weather Service has placed the region under a Winter Storm Watch starting Monday night and extending through Tuesday evening. With highs on Tuesday expected to stay in the 30s to low 40s, some areas may remain below freezing, creating a day of icy wind chills and potential travel challenges.
Relief After the Storm
Precipitation is forecasted to taper off Tuesday evening, but temperatures will drop sharply overnight, with lows reaching the teens and mid-20s. Freeze Warnings and Cold Weather Advisories will likely continue later this week.
Cold Weather Resources Mobilized
In response to the severe cold, homeless shelters in the area are reaching capacity, prompting the City of Corpus Christi to open additional resources to assist residents:
Cold Weather Refuge Center
- Location: Corpus Christi Gym, 3203 Cabaniss Parkway
- Operating Hours: 6:00 p.m. Sunday, January 19, through 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 22 (subject to weather conditions)
- Services Provided: Meals (City of Corpus Christi), snacks, and drinks (The Salvation Army).
Daytime Warming Centers
The City also offers free public warming centers to ensure residents have a safe, warm place during the day.
- Owen R. Hopkins Library is located at 3202 McKinzie Road and Is open Tuesday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Ben F. McDonald Library is located at 4044 Greenwood Drive and Is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Anita & W.T. Neyland Library: 1230 Carmel Parkway, Hours: Tuesday, 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
- Janet F. Harte Library: 2629 Waldron Road, Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Dr. Clotilde P. Garcia Library: 5930 Brockhampton Drive, Hours: Tuesday–Thursday, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
- La Retama Central Library is located at 805 Comanche Street and Is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
(Note: Libraries are closed on Monday due to the holiday.)
Transportation Assistance
The Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority (CCRTA) offers free transportation to and from the refuge and warming centers during operating hours to ensure everyone can access these facilities. Additionally, the Corpus Christi Police Department (CCPD) will provide transportation for those needing to reach shelters, warming centers, or the cold weather refuge. Residents in need can contact CCPD’s Non-Emergency Police line at (361) 886-2600 for assistance.
Preparing for the Freeze
The coming days bring many challenges, from hazardous driving conditions to prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures. Residents are urged to prepare for icy roads, stock up on essentials, and keep informed of changing weather conditions. Stay tuned from the National Weather Service and local authorities as the situation develops.