Dallas residents are bracing for a sharp temperature drop as the National Weather Service in Fort Worth has issued an Extreme Cold Watch for North and Central Texas. The watch, which extends from Tuesday evening through Thursday morning, warns of dangerously cold wind chills as low as 10 below zero possible, per the official alert.

Before the onset of extreme cold conditions, the forecast for Dallas was relatively benign, with a sunny Washington's Birthday and a high near 56 degrees, followed by a higher chance of showers and cloudy skies, according to the National Weather Service. However, the scenario is projected to drastically change starting Tuesday evening, prompting the authorities to urge the public to soon prepare for the cold snap.

Specific impacts from this Arctic front include the high risk of hypothermia or frostbite on exposed skin if proper precautions are not taken. The warning emphasizes that outdoor animals should have access to a warm, dry shelter, food, and unfrozen water. Residents must wear layers, including a hat, face mask, and gloves if they go outside.

As North Texans hunker down, pet owners are also reminded to keep their companions indoors as much as possible during this period of frigid weather.