AUSTIN (KXAN) — Excitement is through the roof for the very first game of the University of Texas at Austin's football season, with the Longhorns taking on Colorado State on Saturday. However, rain chances may bring the possibility of soggy fans.
A weak front is expected to move into Central Texas and stall out creating rain chances over the weekend. While most models are keeping the showers isolated at best for Saturday, the chance of rain falling while the game is going on can't be ruled out.
So how, exactly, do UT officials plan for football games when there's the risk of severe weather? Troy Kimmel, a senior lecturer and the incident response meteorologist at UT's Office of Emergency Management, said the office works in tandem with UT Athletics on game day safety, with processes and procedures outlined in the university's instant action plan.
Among key metrics to watch for is lightning, Kimmel said.
"We particularly watch for lightning closer in than about 10 miles, just to kind of use a round number, and we can kind of make recommendations based on that when it begins to develop," he said.
But aside from thunderstorms and lightning, heat is one of the major issues UT monitors — especially with an afternoon kickoff at the end of August.
As a result, Kimmel said UT officials work closely with its St. David's medical team on site along with other public safety personnel to help keep people cool. That includes the use of cooling shelters inside the stadium for anyone overheating.
He said attendees should begin preparations Friday to stay cool on Saturday, including plenty of hydration, a solid night's sleep and wearing lighter, looser fabrics to avoid attract additional sunrays.
"Frankly, students should be and guests should be hydrating today, plenty of water, beginning today and tomorrow," Kimmel said. "I'll just make the quick statement that alcoholic beverages don't count."
Scott Filip, communications, marketing and outreach manager for UT's Office of Emergency Management, added the office works alongside UT Athletics and guests to keep visitors informed about any emergency updates or weather changes, in the event of storms rolling through. Those looking to receive text updates about Saturday's game can text "UTGUEST" to 888777 to enroll.
While guests at Darrel K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium aren't allowed to bring umbrellas, rain coats, ponchos and jackets are permitted inside. A complete guide to allowed and prohibited items is available online.
Looking into the future, KXAN's First Warning team said rain chances are expected to continue through Labor Day and into the beginning of the week.
