Austin is located in south central Texas, where the Colorado River crosses the Balcones Escarpment, separating the Texas Hill Country from the black-land prairies to the east. The Colorado River flows through the heart of the city, creating a series of sparkling lakes that stretch for more than 100 miles. Austin's climate is subtropical with prevailing southerly winds and an average of 300 days of sunshine each year. Summers are hot; winters are mild, with only occasional brief cold spells. Most precipitation falls in the form of rain in late spring and early fall. Snow is rare; Austin may experience several winters in succession with no measurable amount.
Area: 258.43 square miles (2000)
Elevation: Ranges from 425 feet at lakeside to 1,000 feet in the northwest city hills
Average temperatures: January, 50.1° F; July, 84.3° F; annual average, 68.6° F.
Average Annual Precipitation: 31.35 inches