Winter Storm Cora Threatens Texas with Icy Conditions

A winter storm developing over Texas is expected to bring icy conditions and freezing rain to parts of the state through the end of the week. Winter Storm Cora, while less severe than initially forecast, still poses risks, particularly in Central Texas, where light icing could impact elevated surfaces like bridges and power lines.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), pockets of sleet are possible along parts of the I-35 corridor in Central Texas. Temperatures are expected to remain steady in the upper-30s on Thursday night, with rain tapering off by early Friday. Freezing rain could accumulate to at least 0.10 inches from Wednesday night through Friday morning, potentially leading to hazardous conditions.

“The probabilities [of icing] are centered across the Hill Country, while the odds of winter impacts have decreased significantly across the I-35 Corridor and the remainder of South Central Texas,” the NWS stated in a recent update. “With light icing, the possible impacts will be to elevated surfaces, such as bridges, trees, and power lines.”

Total rainfall amounts are expected to range from 0.1 inches in the west to up to 3 inches in the east. Areas with heavier rainfall may experience minor flooding. The storm is expected to hit Central Texas on Thursday morning, with feels-like temperatures dropping to the lower 30s throughout the day and upper 20s by night.

Governor Greg Abbott held a news conference Thursday morning to discuss the state’s response to the severe winter weather. He was joined by Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd, Texas Department of Transportation Deputy Executive Director Brian Barth, Electric Reliability Council of Texas CEO Pablo Vegas, and Public Utility Commission Chair Thomas Gleeson, among others.

In North Texas, snowfall predictions range from 1 to 3 inches in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, with 3 to 6 inches expected in northern and northeastern parts of the Metroplex. The NWS has upgraded the winter storm watch to a winter storm warning for these regions.

The weather could also impact travel for fans heading to AT&T Stadium in Arlington for Friday night’s College Football Semifinal game between the University of Texas and Ohio State. Meteorologists recommend traveling early or waiting until Friday to avoid hazardous road conditions.

Residents are advised to stay updated on local forecasts and prepare for potential icy conditions. “Keep the jacket and umbrella handy,” said FOX 7 Austin meteorologist Zack Shields. “Future rain totals are trending wetter, and it could rain all day tomorrow.”