"Arctic Blast Hits Austin: Mayor Urges Indoor Stay, Emergency Operations Activated"

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson urges residents to stay indoors during the arctic blast bringing dangerously cold temperatures, with a higher chance of precipitation creating slick surfaces and roadways. The city's emergency operations center is open, and over 200 people have used overnight shelters. The state's electric grid operator issued an energy conservation appeal, and officials are monitoring road conditions while urging caution for necessary travel. Temperatures are forecasted to stay below freezing through Tuesday, with updates available on social media.