Extreme Cold Weather Warnings Issued for North Texas Amid Icy Conditions
DALLAS, Texas — North Texas braced for extremely cold temperatures and hazardous conditions as wind chills could plunge to dangerous levels this Wednesday. The CBS News Texas meteorologists have declared First Alert Weather Days for today and Thursday, urging residents to prepare for the bitter cold.
An Extreme Cold Warning is in effect across North Texas until 9 a.m. Thursday, affecting all regions. Wind chills are expected to reach as low as -12 degrees in certain areas, with gusts of wind potentially hitting 30 mph. As of early Wednesday morning, the temperature at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport dropped to a frigid zero degrees, while Bonham reported the coldest wind chill at -9 degrees.
The First Alert Weather Days are due to the expected extreme cold and hazardous wind chills. Residents should anticipate maximum temperatures only reaching the teens and low 20s. Meteorologists advise dressing in layers, limiting outdoor activities, and protecting exposed skin from the harsh conditions.
According to the National Weather Service, a band of light winter precipitation may affect the region, with patchy freezing drizzle and possible light snow. The Winter Weather Advisory remains effective until midnight, as icy conditions could develop, particularly on bridges and overpasses. “As temperatures drop below freezing, people should be cautious while traveling,” a spokesperson from the NWS stated.
With temperatures plummeting nearly 40 degrees overnight across North Texas, it is essential for residents to stay informed and take precautions. Thursday morning may bring record low temperatures, with a forecast low of 14 degrees — significantly lower than the previous record of 19 degrees set in 1939.
Scott Padgett, Chief Meteorologist with CBS 11 since September 2013, noted the severity of the cold front, advising, “This will be pipe-freezing cold, so it’s crucial to prepare for frigid conditions.” He emphasized that safely managing the weather’s effects, especially in winter, is critical.
Looking ahead, temperatures are expected to rise back into the 70s by next week, bringing a sharp contrast to the current weather. Authorities continue to stress that individuals should monitor updates to ensure safety during the extreme cold. Snapchat messages from local meteorologists reinforce the need for preparedness in these severe conditions.
