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Austin, TX
Polar vortex to hit Texas with arctic air starting Monday. 4 maps show how cold it’ll get
What is the polar vortex?
The polar vortex is a large area of low-pressure and cold air that typically swirls around the Earth’s poles, particularly the North Pole.
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Most of the holidays may be over, but winter is sticking around — and it’s bringing freezing weather to Texas next week.
A polar vortex, a weather pattern similar to the historic winter storm that struck Texas in 2021 — when every county in the state experienced below-freezing temperatures for the first time — is making its presence felt and is expected to reach Texas by Monday.
The upcoming polar vortex will bring arctic air from Canada down throughout most of the U.S. While not as severe as the 2021 Great Texas Freeze, the phenomenon will quickly drop temperatures into the 20s and 30s across Texas next week, down into the teens in some northern parts of the state.
What is a polar vortex?
A polar vortex is a large area of low pressure and cold air that swirls around the Earth’s poles, primarily in the stratosphere, creating a strong band of west-to-east winds. When this vortex weakens, it can send frigid air from the Arctic southward, bringing dangerously cold temperatures to mid-latitude regions like the southern United States.
In 2021, the polar vortex prompted widespread power outages across Texas, resulting in rolling blackouts and leading to the deaths of 246 people.
When will the polar vortex reach Texas?
The effects of the polar vortex are expected to reach Texas on Monday and bring freezing or below-freezing temperatures throughout the week.
The impending event could bring snow to all 48 contiguous states, except for southern California, southern Florida, and southern Arizona. However, snowfall is unlikely in parts of Texas that are not in the northern regions, and any areas that do receive snow will likely experience only a brief period of accumulation, as temperatures are expected to warm back into the 40s during the daytime.
How cold will it get in Texas? See forecast map
The National Weather Service and NOAA forecast Texas temperatures will begin to dip Monday, with some North Texas regions seeing freezing temperatures. By Wednesday, most of the state will have high temperatures in the upper 30s and lows in the teens and low 20s. These will slowly creep back up by Thursday evening.
As several cold fronts rush through Texas, the northern parts of the state will see the lowest temperatures.
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How to prepare your home during freezing temperatures
To prepare your home for freezing temperatures, insulate exposed pipes, seal any drafts around windows and doors, and ensure your heating system is in good working order.
Here are some tips:
- Insulate vulnerable pipes to prevent frozen pipes. When temperatures drop below 32 degrees, let a few faucets drip to prevent freezing and bursting. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to reach the pipes.
- Caulk gaps and openings around windows, doors, air conditioners, and mail chutes to prevent cold air from entering. For extra protection against heat loss, you can install weather stripping and seals.
- Keep driveways and sidewalks free of ice and snow, and repair any step or handrail issues.
- Winter brings more residential fires, so ensure all smoke detectors work by testing them monthly and replacing batteries as needed. Also, install a carbon monoxide detector to prevent toxic gas buildup.
- Keep your thermostat at 65 degrees or higher and ensure your home is well-insulated. A programmable or energy-efficient thermostat can help maintain warmth in key areas while saving on energy costs.
The NWS Weather Prediction Center has general tips for staying safe in winter weather.
How long will the cold last?
These wintry conditions are predicted to sweep through Texas and move on by next weekend.
Austin, TX
Texans are voting to add parental rights to the constitution. What does that mean?
AUSTIN — Texans are voting Tuesday to add rights for parents who find themselves at odds with the state or other governmental entities over how to raise their children, making Texas the first state to add parental rights to its founding document if Proposition 15 passes.
If approved, the new language will be added to Article 1 of the Texas Constitution, also known as the Bill of Rights. That’s the section that lays out the rights and protections for Texans, including limits on the government’s power, and the individual freedoms of speech, religion and the right to bear arms, among others.
What does the amendment say?
“To enshrine truths that are deeply rooted in this nation’s history and traditions, the people of Texas hereby affirm that a parent has the responsibility to nurture and protect the parent’s child and the corresponding fundamental right to exercise care, custody, and control of the parent’s child, including the right to make decisions concerning the child’s upbringing.”
Would it change any state laws?
There is no indication that this will substantially change any state or federal laws, including those against child abuse or other protections, attorneys who support the bill have said, if it’s approved. Instead, it gathers up rights that have already been established over a century in state and U.S. Supreme Court case law, the bill’s author said.
Did any lawmakers vote against it?
Yes, but most didn’t. For an amendment to be presented to voters, it has to gain at least two-thirds support in the Legislature, so this one had bipartisan support. The amendment won unanimous support in the Senate but was opposed by two dozen Democrats in the House, many of them members of the far-left Texas Legislative Progressive Caucus who warned that laws spotlighting the rights of the parents often ignore the needs of children to be heard and protected by the government — often from their own parents.
Is this a new issue?
No. State leaders in Republican-dominated Texas have been pushing for more laws like this for years. In 2019, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton released a report defending parental rights against state interference at the request of a Republican House chairman. In 2023, Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, signed a package of legislation intended to strengthen parents’ voices in education, including giving them access to curriculum and library materials.
What was the first parental rights decision in the U.S.?
Notable federal cases that have contributed to parental-rights precedents go as far back as 1923, when the U.S. Supreme Court established a parent’s right to guide their children’s education “suitable to their station in life.” In 1925, a century ago, the court cemented that right with a precedent-setting opinion: “The child is not the mere creature of the State; those who nurture him and direct his destiny have the right, coupled with the high duty, to recognize and prepare him for additional obligations.”
What has happened since then?
Several additional cases. In 1972, Wisconsin vs. Yoder established the right to raise your child in the religion of your choosing. In the early ‘80s, the court required a higher burden of proof to terminate parental rights. In the 2000 decision Troxel vs. Granville, the court connected parental rights to the 14th Amendment protections of privacy.
In 1979, the court’s majority opinion summed up its position this way:
“The statist notion that governmental power should supersede parental authority in all cases because some parents abuse and neglect children is repugnant to American tradition.”
Austin, TX
Austin FC bows out of MLS playoffs after 4-1 loss to LAFC
AUSTIN (KXAN) — In a match with a combined 27 fouls and eight yellow cards, visiting LAFC overwhelmed Austin FC 4-1 on Sunday at Q2 Stadium, advancing to the Western Conference semifinals of the MLS playoffs.
With the victory, LAFC claimed the best-of-3 first-round series 2-0 following their 2-1 win Oct. 29 in Los Angeles.
By the time Austin FC’s Dani Pereira converted a penalty kick in the waning moment of first-half stoppage time, LAFC went into the locker room up 3-1 and in full control of the match.
Son Heung-min, the former Tottenham Hotspur captain who joined LAFC in August, opened the scoring in the 21st minute by beating Ilie Sanchez with a nasty stepover, and then he fired a shot past Brad Stuver from just outside the 6-yard box.
Denis Bouanga bagged a pair of goals in the first half to build LAFC’s insurmountable advantage. His first came four minutes after Son’s opening marker and was his 100th goal across all competitions with the club. His second goal added salt to the wound for Austin to make it 3-0 in the 44th minute. It came after LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris stopped a Myrto Uzuni penalty kick attempt in the 39th minute.
LAFC’s Jeremy Ebobisse entered the match for Son in the 88th minute and, in five minutes, added another tally. He fired a left-footed shot past Stuver’s sliding boot to put an exclamation point on the final match of the season in Austin.
LAFC outshot Austin 17-7, including 5-4 on target, and Austin was whistled for offside three times.
It was the first time since 2022 that Austin made the MLS playoffs. They entered the postseason as the No. 6 seed in the Western Conference.
Coupled with its playoff appearance and runner-up finish in the U.S. Open Cup, Austin took a step in the right direction under first-year head coach Nico Estevez.
LAFC will face the Vancouver Whitecaps in the conference semifinals.
Austin, TX
Austin Highlights: Nov 3 To 6 – Food, Music, Arts & More
Last Updated On – 2nd November, 2025
Jump to: Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday
The best free and fun events in Austin, November 3 – 6, include Maroon 5 in concert, Oltrf Block Party, and more!
Austin turns up the energy long before the weekend hits, and our Austin picks Nov 3 to 6 2025 round up the can’t-miss events keeping the city buzzing all week. Explore what’s happening this week and keep your weekdays packed with Austin’s signature spirit and creativity.
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.
Free and Fun Events in Austin this Monday, November 3, 2025
Jesse McCartney in concert
Get to see Jesse McCartney live and hear the latest music from his 2024 EP, All’s Well, and enjoy a thrilling show!
Where: Austin City Limits Live (ACL Live & 3TEN ACL Live), 310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
When: Monday, November 3, 2025 | 8 pm
How Much: Not stated
Waterloo Wellness: Yoga & Sound

Image Credit: Waterloo Greenway FB Page
Start each week with feel-good vibes at Waterloo Wellness: Yoga & Sound. Experience mindful movement in a class that features a different style of yoga each time, perfectly accompanied by live music and healing sound therapy.
All ages and abilities are warmly welcome to join this unique and restorative event!
Where: Moody Amphitheater, Waterloo Park, 500 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Monday, November 3, 2025 | 6 pm – 7 pm
How Much: Free
Free and Fun Events in Austin this Tuesday, November 4, 2025
World Ballet Company presents Cinderella

Image credit: World Ballet Company
Step into the magical world of Cinderella, live on stage, for one of the most enchanting Austin picks Nov 3 to 6 2025!
The World Ballet Company brings this beloved fairy tale to life in a spectacular Broadway-style production that delights all ages, flawlessly blending humor, romance, and the timeless majesty of classical ballet.
This dazzling show features a cast of 40 international dancers, over 150 radiant hand-sewn costumes, exquisite hand-crafted sets, and captivating choreography by Marina Kesler.
Every moment is filled with charm and wonder, from the mischievous evil stepsisters to the breathtaking ballroom scenes, promising you an unforgettable journey of magic, beauty, and “happily ever after.” Just remember what happens when the clock strikes midnight!
Where: Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Tuesday, November 4, 2025 | 7 pm
How Much: Starts at $46.80
Maroon 5 in concert
Pop-rock band Maroon 5 is coming to Austin to perform in support of their brand new album, Love is Like. Get ready for a high-energy show as the band plays hits from their new release and their beloved catalog.
Where: Moody Center, 2001 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Tuesday, November 4, 2025 | 8 pm
How Much: Starts at $64
Free and Fun Events in Austin this Wednesday, November 5, 2025
The 50th Annual Garage & Estate Sale Preview Party

Image Credit: The Settlement Home for Children Foster and Adoption Program FB Page
Get ready for an incredible shopping opportunity at the 50th Annual Garage & Estate Sale! The Settlement Home for Children’s massive annual sale gives you the chance to purchase thousands of items at bargain prices.
You’ll find a massive selection ranging from jewelry, tools, and vintage collectibles to children’s clothing. The festivities will begin with a special preview party on November 5th, before the public days run from November 7th through 9th.
Where: Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Wednesday, November 5 – 9, 2025 | 7 pm
How Much: Free to $25
Oltorf Block Party
Loro is hosting its first-ever Oltorf Block Party, a community-driven, market-style event to celebrate the launch of their new collaboration hat with Mañana Austin’s surf gear and apparel brand.
You can expect a night of good food, great vibes, and awesome giveaways! The party will also feature some of the city’s favorite local brands, one-night-only menu collaborations, exclusive giveaways, and live music.
Where: Loro Asian Smokehouse and Bar, 2115 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Wednesday, November 5, 2025 | 6 pm – 8 pm
How Much: $38
Texas Theatre and Dance presents Cabaret
Step into the vibrant and tumultuous world of 1930s Berlin with Texas Theatre and Dance’s presentation of Cabaret.
Watch as a young American writer arrives in the city and immediately falls for the English singer Sally Bowles. Meanwhile, Fräulein Schneider, the boarding house owner, tentatively begins a romance with Herr Schultz, a mild-mannered Jewish fruit seller.
The iconic production features unforgettable musical numbers like “Willkommen,” “Cabaret,” “Don’t Tell Mama,” and “Two Ladies.”
Where: B. Iden Payne Theatre, 300 E 23rd St, Austin, TX 78712
When: Wednesday, November 5, 2025 | 7:30 pm
How Much: Starts at $10
Free and Fun Events in Austin this Thursday, November 6, 2025
Out of Bounds Comedy Festival

Image Credit: Out of Bounds Comedy Festival FB Page
Get ready to laugh non-stop at the beloved, Austin-grown Out of Bounds Comedy Festival (OOB), one of the best Austin picks Nov 3 to 6 2025!
After a six-year hiatus, the festival is back, featuring a packed schedule of hilarity. You can look forward to seeing incredible performances by talented local Austin acts and troupes from around the country.
Plus, the festival will also bring in special guest Dropout.TV all-stars including Ify Nwadiwe, Kimia Behpoornia, and Ross Bryant!
Where: Various locations in Austin
When: Thursday, November 6 – 9, 2025
How Much: Varies
Austin Polish Film Festival
You are invited to the Austin Polish Film Festival (APFF)! Over the years, this event has contributed to the vibrant Austin film scene by screening over 400 films and hosting numerous filmmakers.
This year’s festival will present a diverse and carefully selected lineup from among the latest award-winning features, documentaries, and animations. This unique platform gives Polish filmmakers a fantastic opportunity to share their work with a diverse audience.
Where: AFS Cinema, 6259 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752
When: Thursday, November 6 – 9, 2025
How Much: Free – $120
Much Ado About Nothing
After years of war, you can step into an idyllic Italian town that is finally back in bloom for this performance.
Watch as the young lovers Claudio and Hero, along with the sparring singletons Beatrice and Benedick, discover that all is not as it seems in their beautiful surroundings. This classic comedy entangles them all in a series of mischievous games, pranks, and cunning plots.
Where: Mary Moody Northen Theatre, 3001 S Congress Ave Building THAR, Austin, TX 78704
When: Thursday, November 6 – 16, 2025
How Much: $15 – $28
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