Rain Causes Traffic Delays and Zoo Closure in San Antonio

News Summary

San Antonio is currently facing significant disruption due to a cold rain. Traffic has been impacted, with lane closures on U.S. Highway 281 and multiple accidents on Interstate 35 leading to congestion. Additionally, the San Antonio Zoo has closed for the day as animals are affected by the weather, although the Starbucks on-site remains open. The rainy conditions are expected to continue, accompanied by chilly temperatures, prompting advisories for travelers and outdoor plans.

Rain Causes Traffic Delays and Zoo Closure in San Antonio

San Antonio is experiencing a cold rain that’s causing quite a bit of chaos for drivers across the city! As the droplets continue to fall, they’re making their presence known, especially on both the North and South sides of town.

Drivers, beware! The Texas Department of Transportation has had to make the tough decision to close the two far-right lanes of U.S. Highway 281 southbound near Thousand Oaks Drive due to high water accumulation. This situation has forced all traffic to shift left, leading to a bit of a traffic tango on the highway.

Traffic Troubles

In addition to those lane closures, it’s been a rough ride on Interstate 35 as well. Two accidents along the northbound lanes have significantly contributed to the headaches for those trying to get around. The first crash, located near Palo Alto Road, has managed to block one of the two main lanes. Things have gotten even trickier with a second crash near South Zarzamora Street, which has unfortunately blocked three of the four main lanes. Fortunately, despite the congestion, it’s worth noting that no injuries or stalled vehicles have been reported from any of these incidents.

San Antonio Zoo Takes a Day Off

In other news, the San Antonio Zoo has decided to close its gates for the day due to the chilly, rainy weather that’s gripping the area. Rainy weather is no fun for the animals, and it seems that even the Zoo Train is taking a break. But don’t worry, coffee lovers! The Starbucks at the zoo is staying open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for anyone needing a caffeine fix while they wait for sunnier days.

What’s Next for the Weather?

Looking ahead, San Antonio can expect up to an inch of rainfall with these rainy conditions sticking around until about midnight Thursday. If you’re planning to head out around midday, be prepared for temperatures hovering in the mid-30s. Thankfully, it doesn’t look like the thermometer will drop below freezing this time around.

But hold onto your hats because there’s a wind chill advisory in play! Friday morning is expected to feel quite a bit colder with gusty winds making temperatures feel like they’re in the 20s. The mornings will kick off in the mid-30s, but don’t expect any relief during the day; highs are only projected to reach the mid-40s. If you’re thinking about outdoor plans, be sure to bundle up!

As the skies clear up on Friday night, temperatures will dip once again, leading to another freeze on Saturday morning with lows predicted to be in the 20s. The National Weather Service is advising residents in South Texas to prepare for that cold weather with a specific advisory in effect.

Flight Delays at the Airport

For those traveling in or out of San Antonio International Airport, it’s wise to keep an eye on the skies! Flight delays and cancellations have already started, most notably with all flights to Dallas being canceled for Thursday night. If you have travel plans, check the flight statuses online through the ‘Fly San Antonio’ website to stay updated.

With significant precipitation expected to continue across Texas through Friday morning, it’s clear that this cold front has made quite the splash, bringing a notable drop in temperatures as well. Instead of the usual 63 degrees for early January, most highs are only hitting the 40s and 50s. So grab those umbrellas and raincoats – it’s going to be a wet and chilly ride!