This weekend, the weather in San Antonio is going to change dramatically.

It has been so warm all winter that I was wondering if we would even get any cold weather this winter, but suddenly Arctic air is coming down, and it makes me feel a bit anxious. During the day, temperatures will be in the mid-40s, and at night, they will drop to the mid-20s, which is a real cold snap by Texas standards.

Even though Texas winters are short, when they do come, they come hard, and if you're not prepared, you'll definitely regret it. So these days, I've made it a routine to check things around the house to avoid any issues with the freezing temperatures.

Especially on Saturday night, there might be a mix of rain and snow, which makes me a little nervous. If it snows, I might at least get to enjoy some snow with the kids, but the possibility of ice forming on the roads is my biggest concern. Texas roads are generally not well-prepared for slippery conditions, and when ice forms, accidents happen everywhere, leading to store and school closures and road controls.

The wind is also expected to pick up. When the north wind blows, the wind chill will drop significantly, making it feel like your face will freeze just from stepping outside for a moment. With the humidity low, it's likely to be a bone-chilling cold. I'll need to grab my puffer jacket and scarf even when taking out the trash.

So I plan to start preparing little by little from today. First, it's a good idea to check the car. Make sure to check the antifreeze to confirm it's at the right ratio. If the antifreeze is old, it's safer to replace it now. Also, check the battery to see if it's not weakened by listening to the sound when starting and checking the voltage. Batteries often die suddenly in cold weather.

Don't forget about the tire pressure. When temperatures drop, the air pressure naturally decreases, increasing the risk of slipping. Switching to winter washer fluid will also make it much easier to clean icy windows.

Inside the house, the water tank and pipes are the most important. Pipes exposed to the outside should be wrapped in insulation, and it's a good idea to leave the faucet slightly open at night. Blocking the area around the boiler or water heater from direct wind will also help.

It's also comforting to prepare for power outages in advance. Gather flashlights, extra batteries, and portable chargers in one place. If you have a generator, check if there's gas and that it's working properly.

Honestly, I feel both excited and worried about this cold weather. It's nice to finally experience a real winter in warm Texas, but memories of struggling during a major cold snap in the past make me uneasy. Still, staying home this weekend with a hot drink and watching movies could be enjoyable.

In any case, I think it's best for everyone to stay warm and limit outings this weekend. Make sure to check your heating in advance, and if you're driving far, be especially careful. Since it's getting cold, prepare well in advance, and I hope everyone gets through it safely.