CENTRAL TEXAS (KXXV) — Central Texas emergency responders demonstrated significant improvement in their winter storm response compared to the devastating 2021 freeze. Through better preparation and unified coordination between agencies, McLennan and Bell County officials successfully managed the recent ice storm with minimal emergency incidents. McLennan County Emergency Management's Ryan Dirker said the 2021 winter storm helped prepare them for the latest weather event. Assistant Chief Kevin Berzesi said they received only seven calls during this storm, compared to 362 calls in 2021. The elements created unexpected challenges, including during a structure fire in Bell County where firefighters discovered a frozen hydrant.