San Angelo mayor urges preparations as extreme cold could last up to three days

Mayor Tom Thompson warned San Angelo residents of an extreme cold snap expected this weekend and urged immediate preparations to reduce risks.

"Freezing temperatures may last up to 3 days," Thompson said, adding that "a little preparation now can make a big difference." The mayor advised residents to limit time outdoors and to dress in layers, including hats and gloves.

Thompson asked community members to check on elderly neighbors and others who may need extra help, saying cold weather "can be dangerous, not just uncomfortable." He recommended home-protection measures including dripping faucets, opening cabinet doors under sinks and covering outdoor faucets, and reminded residents to know where their main water shutoff is located.

The mayor issued a specific safety warning about heating during outages: "Never use grills, ovens, or generators indoors," and noted plainly that "carbon monoxide is deadly." He also told residents to prepare for possible power outages by using flashlights instead of candles, keeping phones charged, having extra blankets and planning for three days of drinking water.

Pet owners were told to bring animals indoors and make shelter plans for livestock. Thompson also urged drivers to avoid unnecessary travel because of icy conditions, singling out bridges as especially hazardous.

For updates, Thompson instructed residents to rely on official city communications. He closed by urging the community to "prepare now, look out for one another, and together, we'll get through this safely."