Dallas, Texas — North Texas residents woke up Sunday to a deeper blanket of snow and sleet than many expected, with dangerous cold still tightening its grip on the region. While the heaviest precipitation has moved out, forecasters warn that lingering flurries, lake-effect snow, and extreme cold temperatures will continue to create hazardous conditions across the Dallas–Fort Worth area through early next week.
According to the National Weather Service, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for much of North and Central Texas through at least midday Sunday, while an Extreme Cold Warning will follow from Sunday evening through Tuesday at noon.
How Much Snow and Sleet Did Dallas Get?
Snow totals across the metroplex varied depending on location, with sleet being the dominant form of accumulation for many neighborhoods.
- Most of the Dallas–Fort Worth area picked up 1 to 2 inches, mainly sleet
- Communities north of the metroplex saw higher totals of 3 to 5 inches, a mix of snow and sleet
- Southern areas generally reported around 1 inch or less
While snowfall amounts were not historic, the combination of sleet, ice, and prolonged freezing temperatures has significantly worsened travel conditions.
Lake-Effect Snow Adds to the Trouble
Even after the main system exited, winter weather did not completely shut down. Strong northwest winds blowing over relatively warm area lakes have triggered lake-effect snow, a phenomenon more commonly associated with the Great Lakes region.
Narrow snow bands developing southeast of local lakes could lead to localized accumulations, even as surrounding areas see only flurries.
Most residents will notice only scattered flakes, but forecasters caution that brief bursts of snow could quickly reduce visibility and slick roadways.
Dangerous Cold Settles In
Temperatures across North Texas are expected to remain below freezing for nearly 80 consecutive hours, an unusually long stretch for the region.
Overnight lows are forecast to drop into the single digits, with some northern areas approaching zero due to deeper snow cover. Dallas is expected to reach around 9 degrees, potentially breaking a long-standing daily record.
Read Also: Major Winter Storm Puts NYC And Tri-State Under Warning Ahead Of Heavy Snow And Ice
What makes the cold especially dangerous is the wind.
Wind chills could plunge as low as minus 12 degrees, creating life-threatening conditions for anyone exposed outdoors for extended periods.
Monday Forecast: Cold, Windy, and Risky Roads
Monday is shaping up to be another harsh winter day across Dallas and surrounding communities.
- Morning low: around 9 degrees
- Afternoon high: only 28 degrees
- Wind chills: near minus 5 degrees during the morning hours
While skies may turn partly sunny, officials warn that melting during the day could refreeze rapidly after sunset.
“Even treated roads may refreeze quickly, creating dangerous black ice,” forecasters cautioned.
Drivers are urged to use extreme caution, particularly during early morning and evening hours.
Tuesday Brings Gradual Improvement
Some relief is expected by Tuesday afternoon, when temperatures finally climb above freezing.
Morning lows will still be cold — near 11 degrees — but shifting southwest winds should help push highs toward 40 degrees later in the day. A dry cold front is expected Tuesday evening, bringing clouds but no additional precipitation.
Despite the improvement, icy patches may persist in shaded areas and on untreated roads.
Road Conditions and Closures
Transportation officials say travel will remain hazardous even after precipitation ends.
The Texas Department of Transportation advises residents to avoid unnecessary travel, citing lingering ice and sleet on major roadways and overpasses.
School districts across North Texas have announced Monday closures, and numerous events, activities, and church services have been canceled due to unsafe conditions.
Power Outages and Grid Status
As winter weather swept through Texas, power outages statewide climbed above 50,000, though most were scattered and localized.
Officials with the Electric Reliability Council of Texas said the electric grid remains stable, with sufficient power reserves to meet demand despite the extreme cold.
What Residents Should Do Now
Emergency officials urge residents to:
- Stay indoors whenever possible
- Dress in layers if venturing outside
- Check on vulnerable neighbors
- Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary
With freezing temperatures expected to linger, even small amounts of ice can pose serious risks.
Have you experienced road issues, power outages, or school closures due to this winter storm? Share what conditions are like in your area in the comments below.
