Dallas–Fort Worth, Texas — North Texas is preparing for a prolonged stretch of dangerous winter weather, as an Arctic blast combined with wintry precipitation is expected to impact the region from Friday through at least Monday, bringing freezing temperatures, icy roads, and the risk of power outages.
Forecasters say the region could remain below freezing for more than 72 hours, with the most hazardous conditions developing late Friday and continuing through the weekend. By Sunday, wind chills may fall into the single digits or even below zero, creating dangerous conditions for travel, infrastructure, and vulnerable populations.
State activates emergency response ahead of storm
With confidence growing in the severity of the system, Texas officials have begun early preparations. Greg Abbott directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate state emergency response resources ahead of the potential impacts expected to begin late this week.
Officials say the move is intended to ensure rapid response to power outages, road hazards, and emergency needs, especially if ice accumulations become significant.
Mild conditions before sharp turn to winter
Before the Arctic air arrives, North Texas will see a brief period of milder weather. Forecasts call for scattered showers Tuesday night into early Wednesday, mainly east of the I-35 corridor. No severe weather is expected, and conditions should clear by Wednesday afternoon.
Temperatures will then trend above average into Thursday, with highs approaching 60 degrees, giving residents a short window to prepare before winter conditions arrive.
Timeline: rain to ice, then snow
While exact precipitation totals remain uncertain, forecasters have outlined a general timeline for the developing storm:
- Friday morning: Rain develops with temperatures in the upper 40s
- Friday afternoon: A strong cold front moves in, allowing rain to transition to wintry precipitation, potentially impacting the evening commute
- Friday night into Saturday: Wintry mix of sleet and freezing rain becomes more widespread and begins to accumulate
- Saturday night into Sunday: Precipitation likely transitions to snow before tapering off
The DFW Metroplex could begin seeing impacts as early as 4 p.m. Friday, with conditions deteriorating rapidly after sunset.
Winter storm watch issued
A Winter Storm Watch is now in effect for North Texas from 12 p.m. Friday through 6 a.m. Sunday, signaling increasing confidence in moderate to heavy accumulations of sleet, freezing rain, and/or snow.
Forecasters warn that travel could become treacherous, and power outages are possible, especially if ice builds up on power lines and trees.
Read Also: Winter Weather Advisory Expanded as Snow and Dangerous Cold Target Chicago Area
Important risks include:
- Dangerously cold temperatures
- Frozen pipes
- Livestock exposure
- Extended road closures
- Power disruptions
Officials stress that now is the time to prepare, as conditions may not improve until early next week.
Arctic cold settles in Sunday and Monday
By Sunday morning, the Arctic air mass will be fully entrenched across North Texas. Overnight lows are expected to fall into the teens and single digits, with wind chills near or below zero.
Dangerously cold mornings are expected on Sunday and Monday, and any snow or ice that falls is likely to remain on roads and sidewalks, prolonging impacts even after precipitation ends.
Transportation agencies begin preparations
The Texas Department of Transportation confirmed that crews will begin pretreating roadways in Fort Worth on Wednesday, focusing on major highways, bridges, ramps, and overpasses.
Drivers are urged to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of freezing rain, sleet, or snow, and to expect significant delays if travel is unavoidable.
Winter preparedness at home
The National Weather Service recommends having a winter emergency kit ready, including:
- Non-perishable food and bottled water
- Extra blankets or sleeping bags
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Battery-powered radio
- First aid supplies
Residents are also advised to protect pipes, pets, and plants, turn off sprinkler systems, and ensure heating systems are functioning properly.
What to watch next
Forecasters say the exact mix of rain, sleet, ice, and snow will depend on small temperature changes, and details will continue to be refined over the next few days.
However, confidence is high that dangerous cold and impactful winter weather are coming.
Residents across North Texas are encouraged to monitor forecasts closely, complete preparations by Thursday, and adjust travel plans as needed.
How are you preparing for the Arctic blast and potential wintry mix this weekend? Share your plans and local conditions in the comments.
