Texas Prepares for Winter Storm with Ice and Snow

Texans are preparing for a formidable winter storm that will affect the entire state, beginning Friday. This harsh weather system will usher in subfreezing temperatures accompanied by snow, sleet, and freezing rain. An influx of frigid air from northern Canada is expected to reach southern Texas by Sunday morning.

Winter Storm Impact Across Texas

The storm’s trajectory suggests the heaviest snowfall will occur in areas from Wichita Falls to Lubbock and Amarillo late Friday. By Saturday, the cold front and precipitation will migrate southward, causing temperatures in Brownsville to drop below freezing by Sunday morning.

• Every region from El Paso to Houston will experience a hard freeze.
• Dangerous wind chills will also affect residents statewide.
• Two-thirds to three-quarters of Texas may confront hazardous winter driving conditions.

Forecast by Region

National Weather Service Meteorologist Kurt Van Speybroeck has indicated that various regions in Texas will face distinct challenges:

The Panhandle

The Panhandle is likely to experience severe cold and significant snow on Friday night. Forecast lows are expected to hover around 2 degrees with a 90% chance of precipitation. Snow is anticipated to be dry and fluffy, but strong winds may create perilous driving conditions.

Dallas-Fort Worth Area

In the Dallas-Fort Worth area, sleet and freezing rain will contribute to winter conditions on Friday night, potentially transitioning to snow by Saturday evening. Areas north of Dallas are forecasted to see considerable snowfall, with the coldest temperatures reaching 10 degrees on Saturday night.

Central Texas

Residents of Central Texas should be alert for sleet and freezing rain. While significant accumulation is not expected, lows could drop to 14 degrees on Saturday night.

El Paso and Far West Texas

El Paso may witness snow starting Friday morning, with anticipated accumulations up to 10 inches. Winds could reach speeds of 22 miles per hour, complicating road conditions. Minimum temperatures may reach 28 degrees before warming to 41 on Sunday.

Houston Region

The Houston area can expect rain transitioning to freezing rain as temperatures fall to 27 degrees by Saturday night. Rain is expected to continue through Saturday, changing to freezing conditions overnight into Sunday.

South Texas

By Sunday morning, the winter storm will have reached southern Texas. Residents in Laredo and Brownsville should anticipate near-freezing temperatures, particularly Saturday night into Sunday night with lows around 33 degrees.

State Emergency Preparation

Governor Greg Abbott has activated state emergency response resources in anticipation of hazardous travel conditions and potential impacts on infrastructure. As winter storm watches extend across North and Central Texas, residents are advised to stay informed and prepare for severe weather throughout the weekend.