Dallas is about to experience one of its coldest stretches of winter as an Arctic air mass pushes into North Texas. Temperatures are set to plummet, bringing frigid conditions, dangerous wind chills, and a possible glaze of freezing rain. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning, advising residents to take precautions to stay safe.
How Cold Will It Get?
The brutal cold will start tonight, with temperatures dropping to 19°F, but the strong north winds, gusting up to 30 mph, will make it feel like 7°F to 17°F. That means dangerous wind chills for anyone outdoors, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
On Wednesday, Dallas will struggle to warm up, with a high of only 31°F. But thanks to the wind, it will feel as cold as 4°F. If that wasn’t bad enough, temperatures will drop even further overnight, hitting a bone-chilling 15°F, with wind chills between 3°F and 13°F.
By Thursday, the sun will finally return, but don’t expect much warmth. The high will only reach 33°F, still far below normal for this time of year. The deep freeze will continue through Friday, with highs barely above freezing.
Will There Be Ice or Snow?
A slight chance of freezing rain is expected late tonight, especially after 8 PM. While precipitation will be minimal, even a light glaze of ice can make roads incredibly dangerous. Bridges, overpasses, and untreated surfaces will be most at risk, creating hazardous driving conditions. Officials are urging people to be cautious, as icy patches will be difficult to see. If you must drive, slow down and allow extra stopping distance. Even better, stay off the roads if possible.
When Will It Warm Up?
- Saturday: A small break from the cold arrives, with a high of 46°F and a slight chance of showers in the afternoon.
- Sunday: A major warm-up begins! The sun returns, and temperatures climb to 64°F.
- Monday: A dramatic swing in temperatures brings sunshine and highs near 76°F.
How to Stay Safe in the Extreme Cold
- Layer Up – Wear multiple layers, including gloves and a hat, to protect against frostbite.
- Protect Your Pipes – Let faucets drip to prevent freezing and bursting pipes.
- Check on Loved Ones – Ensure elderly neighbors, children, and pets stay warm.
- Be Cautious on Roads – Even a thin layer of ice can cause accidents. If you must drive, go slow.
- Prepare for Power Outages – Have extra blankets, batteries, and food supplies ready in case of emergencies.
This Arctic outbreak will bring some of the coldest weather of the season, making it vital for everyone to take proper precautions. While relief is on the horizon, Dallas must first endure several days of freezing temperatures and dangerous wind chills. Stay safe, stay warm, and keep an eye on weather updates!