 Due to the upcoming predicted low temperatures, the City of Waco and the Waco-McLennan County OEM will open the Waco Multi-Purpose Center (1020 Elm Ave) as a warming center to provide a safe and warm environment for individuals who may be at risk due to the extreme cold.
A heated indoor space, cots, blankets, Meals Ready to Eat (MREs), and bottled water will be available on-site. Crated pets are also welcome.
The warming center will be open from 8:00 pm on Friday, January 23rd, through 11:00 am on Tuesday, January 27th.
Please share with organizations and friends who may need a warm place to stay.
 All library branches will be closed, Saturday, January 24 and Sunday, January 25 due to inclement weather. We will be monitoring Monday as well. Updates will be posted on Waco-McLennan Library social media accounts.
Water & Pipe Safety
- Insulate outdoor faucets and exposed pipes. Open cabinet doors under sinks to let heat circulate.
- Let faucets drip overnight (especially those on outside walls) when temperatures are below freezing. Try to limit water use during freezing temperatures.
- Report low pressure, outages, or leaks to MyWaco Central at (254) 299-2489.
- If a pipe bursts, turn off the water at your main meter valve immediately.
Stay Safe on the Road
- If ice accumulates, avoid driving on the road. Bridges and overpasses freeze first.
- If any traffic lights are not working, approach the intersection slowly and treat them as a four-way stop.
- Trash pickups will continue as scheduled as long as the road conditions allow. Check back on the City of Waco website or social media for updates.
Protect Your Pets
Make sure your furry friend stays safe and warm this winter season!
- Keep your pets inside when the temperature drops. Anything below 45° for cats and below 32° for dogs puts them in danger of frostbite and hypothermia.
- Outdoor pets must be protected by a dry, draft-free shelter that is large enough for them move around comfortably. The floor should be raised a few inches from the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The doorway should be covered with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.
Natural Gas
If you have natural gas in your home, keep these tips in mind during this winter weather:
- Never use an oven or a gas stovetop to heat your home.
- Protect your natural gas meter by removing any snow or ice with a broom or a brush (never a hard object).
- Make sure all external vents for dryers and other natural gas equipment are not blocked.
- Minimize the risk of frozen pipes by leaving cabinet doors open and dripping water overnight.
- Save money and energy by setting your thermostat to 68° during the day and 58° when you are away from home.
Important Notice for Fire Lines
Many fire lines are not insulated and are especially vulnerable during freezing conditions. To help prevent breaks and significant water loss:
- Wrap and insulate fire lines where possible
- Maintain temperatures of 35 degrees or higher in areas where fire lines are located
- Regularly check fire lines during the freeze
During Winter Storm Uri, broken fire lines were a major source of water loss.
If a fire line does break, shut off water to the line immediately and keep it off until repairs are completed.
The Waco City Council voted to appoint Ryan Holt as the City of Waco’s next City Manager.
Ryan has served the City since 1996 in key leadership roles, including both Chief of Police and then Assistant City Manager. He brings deep institutional knowledge, operational expertise, and a strong commitment to public service.
Council expressed confidence in his ability to provide steady leadership and continue the momentum the City has built together.
Please join us in welcoming Ryan Holt to this role of service to both Waco residents and City employees.
 Ready for a fun, behind-the-scenes look at how your city runs? Sign up for Waco City Academy! The free ten-session class features presentations and activities from most City of Waco departments. You could find yourself filming a city PSA, taking a seat in the official council chambers, interacting with real police equipment, or even feeding a giraffe.
Applications are open January 16 through February 16. Seats are limited and participants are selected first applied, first enrolled.
 Bingocize® is a 10-week health promotion program that combines bingo with inclusive exercises for everyone. Join us for bingo and meet new people while learning about nutrition!
Join the McLennan Public Health District on Fridays, for 10 weeks from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Doris Miller Community Center.
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