North Texas is preparing for a sharp drop in temperatures as winter weather moves into the region. Forecasts call for temperatures to fall to around 27 degrees on Friday. Saturday's temperatures are expected at a low of 14° and a high of 26°. Sunday's low forecasted at 12° and a high of 21°.
Freezing conditions are expected to persist through at least Thursday, January 29th. There is also a 60 percent chance of precipitation this weekend, which could fall as snow or a wintry mix.
State and local officials are urging residents to prepare now and use extra caution as conditions deteriorate.
“Texans know all too well that our weather can shift in a matter of minutes, from sunshine to sleet or worse,” said Bryan Rippee, Chief of the Texas Highway Patrol. “Preparation makes all the difference. A few simple steps today can keep you and your family safe when conditions change unexpectedly.”
Prepare Before The Cold Arrives
Authorities recommend taking time ahead of the cold snap to ensure vehicles and homes are ready.
Vehicle preparedness tips include:
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Checking your battery, windshield wipers, tire pressure, tire tread, and fluid levels
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Making sure door and trunk locks are lubricated to prevent freezing
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Keeping a full tank of gas
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Stocking an emergency kit with warm clothing, food, water, a phone charger or battery pack, and basic first aid supplies
Winter Driving Safety
Drivers are urged to monitor local weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling. Officials advise avoiding travel when sleet, freezing rain, or snow is predicted whenever possible.
If travel is necessary:
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Allow extra time and share your route with someone you trust
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Drive slowly and increase following distance on icy roads
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Avoid using cruise control in poor conditions
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Use extra caution on bridges and overpasses, which freeze before roadways
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Watch for downed trees, power lines, and malfunctioning traffic signals, treating dark intersections as four-way stops
Road conditions can be checked through Drive Texas or by calling 800-452-9292.
Home Safety Tips
Residents are also encouraged to prepare their homes for prolonged freezing temperatures:
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Insulate outdoor faucets and pipes along exterior walls (the City of Irving has provided some guidelines on protecting pipes).
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Ensure furnaces, fireplaces, heaters, and wood stoves are clean, ventilated, and functioning properly
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Keep space heaters at least three feet away from combustible materials and turn them off when sleeping or leaving home
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Never use ovens or gas stoves to heat a home
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Avoid running generators or fuel-powered devices indoors or in enclosed spaces to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
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Consider installing carbon monoxide detectors
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Stock up on essentials such as bottled water, canned food, medication, and firewood
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If your home is only electric with no natural gas and you have a propane gas powered grill, make sure you have a full propane tank. This helps in the scenario that electricity is cut off.
Officials also remind residents to check on elderly neighbors, friends, and family members who may be more vulnerable to extreme cold. Don't forget the homeless during frigid temperatures.
As winter weather develops, stay alert, use caution, and remain prepared to reduce risks and keep your family safe.
