Don't even think about sleeping in, Austin. This morning might be decent, but the afternoon is looking like a typical Texas temper tantrum, so get your miles in early or prepare to get soaked.

🫁 Lungs & Joints Score?/10

Why today is/isn't the day

    • Afternoon Deluge Incoming: While the morning is starting overcast and a pleasant 20.4°C (68.7°F), severe storms are forecasted for early to mid-afternoon today, Saturday, April 11th. We're talking heavy rain and localized flooding, with a marginal risk of hail and damaging winds. Governor Abbott already activated state emergency resources yesterday in anticipation of this whole mess.
    • Zilker Park is a ZOO (and Closed Roads): Forget your usual Zilker loop. The ABC Kite Fest is happening today from 10 AM to 5 PM, meaning Barton Springs Road from MoPac Expy. to S. Lamar is completely shut down from 6 AM to 6 PM. Good luck navigating that circus.
    • Lady Bird Lake Trail Tetris: Your beloved Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail is still a construction zone in parts. The east-side I-35 pedestrian crossing is closed for about a year as they rebuild the Lady Bird Lake Bridge. You'll have to use the west-side I-35 sidewalk or divert way over to South Congress or the new Wishbone Pedestrian Bridge at Pleasant Valley if you want to cross. Plus, the northbound I-35 frontage road ramp at Riverside Drive is closed through 2029. Keep your head on a swivel.
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Severe Storms Expected: Today's weather forecast includes a significant chance of heavy rainfall, localized flooding, and potentially damaging winds, especially from early to mid-afternoon. If you're out there, seriously, keep an eye on the sky and a weather app. Getting caught in a Central Texas downpour is no joke, and slick surfaces are a recipe for twisted ankles.

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Zilker Park & Barton Springs Road Closures: The ABC Kite Fest is in full swing today, April 11th. Expect heavy crowds and complete road closures on Barton Springs Road from MoPac Expy. to S. Lamar until 6:00 p.m. Your usual running or cycling routes through Zilker will be heavily impacted, if not entirely blocked. Plan an alternate route or choose a different park.

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Lady Bird Lake Trail Construction Continues: The I-35 Capital Express Central Project means ongoing work and detours on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. The pedestrian crossing over I-35 on the east side is closed for a year, and the pedestrian ramp to the Boardwalk at Riverside Drive is shut down until 2029. Be prepared for reroutes and reduced lanes if you're trying to get across the lake or near I-35.

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Pollen & Air Quality: The AQI is a decent 36 today, with Ozone/Other as the dominant pollutant. No active wildfires are kicking up smoke in the immediate Austin area, which is a small win. However, pollen is still at a moderate level, so if you're sensitive, don't forget your meds.

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Alternative Routes/Locations: If the storms hit or you want to avoid the Zilker chaos, consider hitting an indoor track or sticking to neighborhood streets away from major festival traffic. If you're determined to hit a trail, explore less central options. Check local city resources for real-time updates before heading out.

Data grounded with FOX 7 Austin, AustinTexas.gov, and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department from April 10-11, 2026.