North Texas is currently in the grip of a severe winter storm, which has triggered warnings from the National Weather Service in Fort Worth. A winter storm warning remains in effect until noon tomorrow, with a mix of heavy sleet and snowfall expected. Accumulations are predicted to be between 1 and 4 inches, but could reach up to around 5 inches near the Red River, with ice accumulations potentially hitting one-half of an inch.
Residents across several counties, including Montague, Cooke, Grayson, and Dallas, are advised to brace for the inclement weather. The forecast includes a chilling drop in temperature to around 20 degrees by this afternoon, with wind chill values plummeting between 7 and 13. According to the National Weather Service, "The strong winds and weight of ice and snow on tree limbs may down power lines and could cause sporadic power outages." These conditions are expected to persist tonight with sleet and potentially heavy snow showers, causing the low to hover around 13 degrees.
Furthermore, an extreme cold warning has been announced and will extend from Saturday evening through Monday noon. This second alert projects wind chills as low as 11 below zero, with the National Weather Service cautioning that "The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 10 below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes." It is recommended to wear multiple layers, including a face mask and gloves, if venturing outside is necessary.
With the storm's onset, residents should reconsider their travel plans, and if travel is imperative, they are urged to proceed with caution. "If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency," the National Weather Service warns. For the latest road conditions, the public is directed to the drivetexas.org website for updates. The next few days will bring some respite: a rise in temperatures with largely sunny skies is expected by mid-week, culminating in highs around 43 degrees on Thursday.
