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An Arctic blast that could bring wind chills in the single digits is set to arrive in Austin and Central Texas overnight tonight and will keep highs in the low 30s for the next two days, forecasters said. Lows will be in the teens and low 20s.

COLD WEATHER TIPS:
• Make sure pets have adequate shelter and warmth, food and water.

• Cover vulnerable outdoor plants or move them indoors.

• Winterize your windows and doors with caulking and weather stripping.

• Never leave space heaters, fireplaces or candles unattended; keep them away from curtains, blankets and furniture while in use.

WATER PIPE TIPS:
BEFORE FREEZING WEATHER:

• Wrap all exposed pipes outside or in unheated areas of the home.

• Remove garden hoses from outside faucets. Insulate outside faucets with Styrofoam cover, rags or paper.

• Cover vents around the foundation of your home.

• Apply lubricant such as WD-40 to the cutoff valve before operating to prevent the valve from breaking.

IN SUBFREEZING WEATHER:

• Drip outside faucets at five drops per minute. (Not necessary unless temperatures are expected to be 28 degrees or below for at least four hours.)

• Open cabinet doors under sinks adjacent to outside walls.

• In sustained subfreezing weather, let water drip slowly from inside faucets.

Sources: City of San Marcos, Austin Fire Department