As we approach the possibility of severe winter weather in the coming days, I encourage you to take time now to prepare both personally and within your congregations. Periods of extreme cold, freezing rain, and potential power outages can impact our communities quickly; especially the elderly, families with children, and those with limited resources.
Forecasts for Bexar County, Austin, and much of Central Texas indicate the arrival of a strong Arctic front late Friday into Saturday, bringing rapidly falling temperatures, freezing rain or sleet, hazardous travel conditions, and the potential for prolonged sub-freezing temperatures through Sunday. Ice accumulation on roads, bridges, trees, and power lines may lead to dangerous travel and possible outages.
I ask that you review your emergency preparedness plans and consider sharing basic preparedness guidance. Simple steps taken in advance can make a significant difference during prolonged weather events.
SPECIAL NOTE: Grocery stores often restock in the early morning, around 6 a.m. Due to increased demand, shopping at that time may offer the best selection. Make sure that you and your loved ones are prepared for the possibility of severe winter weather.

Key preparedness recommendations to share:
1. Water (most critical)
Store 1 gallon per person per day for at least 7 days
Extra water for pets and minimal hygiene needs
2. Food (7 days, no refrigeration required)
Canned foods, protein bars, peanut butter, dried fruit, nuts
Manual can opener
Plan for 2,000+ calories per adult per day
3. Light, Power & Information
Flashlights and extra batteries
Battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio
Fully charged power banks and vehicle phone chargers
4. Warmth & Shelter
Layered clothing, hats, gloves, thick socks
Heavy blankets or sleeping bags
Block drafts and consolidate into one warm room if power is lost
Never use grills indoors; generators must be used outside only
5. Medical & Health Supplies
7-day supply of medications
First aid kit, thermometer, pain relievers
Hygiene and sanitation supplies
6. Safety & Practical Items
Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors with fresh batteries
Cash, copies of important documents, local maps
Pet supplies if applicable
Vehicle kit: blankets, jumper cables, ice scraper, sand or cat litter for traction
Avoid non-essential travel late Saturday into Sunday morning
Protect pipes and outdoor plumbing
Keep pets sheltered
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed if power is lost
7. Tips Before the Storm
Put these items in a designated container or “stay bag” so everything is easy to reach.
Keep car gas tanks at least half full in case travel is needed.
Fill bathtubs/sinks with water for flushing before outages if safe to do so.

Government agencies advise that during severe winter storms, power outages may last for days, roads may be impassable, and emergency services may be delayed. A one-week emergency kit allows households to remain safe, warm, informed, and self-sufficient until conditions improve.

For additional winter weather safety information:
https://www.ready.gov/winter-weat https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter-before
https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter-before 

Hope Center Church is exactly that and more. We are a United Pentecostal Church and we strive to be the kind of church that attracts new families and individuals who desire to grow spiritually and develop their walk with the Lord. The preaching and teaching of Pastor Nathan Scoggins has ignited growth in the Hope Center Church family and allowed it to become a powerful lighthouse in the San Antonio area. We know you would find the Hope Center Church family to be a blessing for you and your family too!