AUSTIN, TX – Texas Governor Greg Abbott holds a press conference in Austin ahead of the harsh winter expected later this week.

Abbott plans to speak around 10:30 a.m. from the Alternate State Operations Center. He is expected to be joined by representatives from a host of different state departments such as the Texas Division of Emergency Management, ERCOT, the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Texas Department of Transportation.

WATCH THE PRESS CONFERENCE HERE:

A major winter storm is brewing from Texas and the Plains to the Midwest and Northeast, where significant amounts of snow and ice will likely cause widespread travel disruptions and power outages starting Tuesday evening.

A very strong arctic cold front will move through south-central Texas on Wednesday afternoon and evening, bringing the coldest temperatures we’ve seen so far this winter, according to the NWS Austin/San Antonio. Forecasters believe a winter mix of freezing rain and sleet will occur in parts of south-central Texas by Thursday morning and possibly continue into the afternoon.

It is also possible that amounts of freezing rain and sleet could impact travel through the Hill Country and the Austin metro area by Thursday morning and continue throughout the day. Up to ¼ inch of ice is currently forecast.

A winter storm watch has been issued for this region.

Drivers are reminded that travel can be very difficult on unpaved roads, especially elevated bridges, overpasses and roads. There is a remote chance that light icing impacts will occur further south to a Del Rio line north of San Antonio at La Grange.

There is also a slight chance for a brief shift to light snow across Val Verde, Edwards and northern Hill Country counties before the precipitation ends.

Quickly track your local forecast for the Austin area with the free FOX 7 WAPP. The design gives you 7-day radar, hourly and weather information just by scrolling. Our weather alerts will warn you early and help you stay safe during storms.

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MORE TITLES:
Major winter storm to spread snow and ice from Texas to Midwest, Northeast starting on the eve of Groundhog Day

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