Texas Winter Storm: Extreme Cold, Ice, and Dangerous Wind Chills Across the State

Extreme Cold Warning and Dangerous Conditions

• ⚠️ An extreme cold warning is in effect for much of North Texas, with single-digit lows and wind chills 5 to 10° below zero.
• 🥶 Temperatures are expected to remain below freezing for extended periods, with some areas not getting above freezing until Tuesday afternoon.
• 🧊 Lingering sleet and snow are contributing to slick road conditions across the state.

Record-Breaking Low Temperatures

• 🌡️ Dallas is forecast to tie a record low of 12°F, set in 1904.
• 📉 Many cities, including Fort Worth, Denton, and Gainesville, are experiencing or will experience single-digit lows.
• 💨 Wind chills are a significant concern, with values expected to be as low as -10°F in North Texas and -5°F in Central Texas.

Widespread Impacts Across Texas

• 🚗 Icy travel conditions are a major concern statewide, with roads expected to remain slick, especially in Central Texas and the Hill Country.
• 🏘️ Hard freeze precautions are advised for Central Texas, including Austin and surrounding areas, with wind chills as low as 5° below zero.
• 🏭 Houston is also under an extreme cold warning, with dangerous feels-like temperatures in the single digits and widespread teens for morning lows.
• ❄️ East Texas is experiencing extremely chilly conditions, with wind chills potentially dropping below zero and a weather impact alert in place until Tuesday morning.
• 🥶 West Texas, including Abilene and San Angelo, is facing widespread hard freezes with air temperatures in the single digits and wind chills in the negative.
• 🌊 Even Corpus Christi is experiencing rare freezing temperatures, with lows at or below 32°F and extreme wind chills in the single digits.

Safety and Preparation Recommendations

• 🏠 Residents are advised to stay inside, stay warm, and avoid unnecessary travel.
• 💧 Recommendations include protecting pipes from freezing and covering plants.
• 🐾 It is crucial to protect pets by bringing them inside and ensuring they are not exposed to the extreme cold.
• 🚗 Drivers should allow extra time for travel due to slick roads and the need to clear ice and snow from vehicles.