Dallas Faces Extreme Cold: Wind Chills to Reach -6°, Significant Snow Expected
North Texas residents should prepare for a significant winter storm this weekend, with warnings issued for extreme cold and hazardous weather conditions. Multiple inches of snow and sleet are anticipated as temperatures plunge below freezing.
Winter Storm and Extreme Cold Watches for North Texas
The National Weather Service has announced a Winter Storm Watch effective from Friday afternoon through Sunday morning. An Extreme Cold Watch will be in place from Saturday evening to Monday morning. Forecasts indicate that temperatures might not rise above freezing until Monday afternoon.
Weather Forecast Timeline
The weather is expected to transition from cold rain to a wintry mix starting Friday:
- North of DFW (Sherman, Paris, Graham): Sleet expected around 6 p.m. Friday, turning to snow by Saturday with significant accumulation around 6 a.m.
- DFW Metroplex: Sleet forecast to begin around 10 p.m. Friday, continuing through Saturday morning and ending as snow Saturday night. Impacts are expected by 10 a.m. Saturday.
- South of DFW (Waco, Palestine, Killeen): Freezing rain will start Friday night, changing to sleet early Saturday, with the wintry mix arriving around 10 a.m.
Accumulation Predictions
The forecast suggests the following accumulation amounts:
- Ice Accumulation: 0.25 to 0.5 inches possible.
- Sleet and Snow: 2 to 5 inches expected for areas north of Interstate 20, with 2 to 4 inches predicted for the Metroplex.
Impacts on Travel and Infrastructure
Travel conditions are likely to be severely affected by Sunday evening due to the expected winter accumulation. Additionally, there is a risk of power outages from ice accumulating on trees and power lines.
Extreme Cold Temperatures Expected
As the storm moves in, dangerously cold temperatures are projected. Wind chills in the Dallas-Fort Worth area may feel as low as minus 6 degrees. Actual lows could reach around 8 degrees, contributing to overall low temperatures throughout North Texas.
Preparation Steps for Residents
With temperatures expected to drop below 10 degrees on Saturday and Sunday nights, residents should take precautions:
- Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing.
- Disconnect hoses and shut off outdoor water sources.
- Let faucets drip to prevent pipe bursts.
- Maintain consistent indoor temperatures above 55 degrees.
Emergency Preparations and State Response
Governor Greg Abbott has activated state emergency resources in anticipation of the storm’s impacts, with agencies like the Texas National Guard ready to assist. Residents are encouraged to stock nonperishable food, water, and essential medications.
School Closures and Safety Measures
School districts across North Texas are monitoring the situation and may alter schedules ahead of the storm. Parents and students should stay informed about potential changes to school activities.
Final Thought
Stay updated on weather developments and ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared for this extreme winter weather event. The forecast suggests that conditions will remain hazardous, making safety a top priority this weekend.
