DALLAS – An arctic front is sweeping through North Texas, prompting officials to issue a Winter Storm Warning for the region. This warning is effective from 6 p.m. Friday through noon Sunday, followed by an Extreme Cold Warning that will last from Saturday evening until Monday morning.
Forecasters from FOX 4 have indicated that temperatures are expected to remain below freezing until Tuesday afternoon. This prolonged cold snap could lead to hazardous travel conditions lasting over 72 hours, with a significant transition to sleet and snow anticipated late Saturday. Accumulating ice on trees and power lines may also result in localized power outages.
Friday, January 23 | Live Updates
9:30 p.m.: Local first responders have completed their preparations as the storm intensifies. Casey Stegall from FOX 4 reports on the measures being taken at fire stations across North Texas to ensure readiness for emergencies related to the severe winter weather.
9 p.m.: The winter storm has officially arrived, with sleet and ice already reported in various parts of North Texas. Chief meteorologist Dan Henry provides an updated forecast as the storm progresses.
7:30 p.m.: Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins was seen departing on a flight from Dallas-Fort Worth just as the powerful winter storm began to impact the area. His travel, which was reportedly pre-planned, has drawn comparisons to Senator Ted Cruz’s controversial trip to Cancun in 2021 during a similar crisis.
7:20 p.m.: H-E-B grocery stores in the Dallas-Fort Worth area will adjust their hours, opening at 8 a.m. on Saturday due to the anticipated weather conditions.
7 p.m.: A FOX 4 photographer captured images of ice forming on trees in Bridgeport, Wise County. While temperatures in the DFW area hovered around 36 degrees, they have dipped below freezing in the northwestern counties, leading to reports of ice forming on elevated surfaces.
6 p.m.: U.S. Senator Ted Cruz has returned to Texas ahead of the winter storm and addressed social media comments regarding his travel plans. He noted the pleasant weather prior to the storm’s arrival and made a light-hearted remark about the potential for a miraculous weather turnaround.
5:30 p.m.: The city of Plano has announced the closure of early voting locations on January 24, affecting several sites scheduled to participate in the upcoming Special Election.
5 p.m.: Additional school districts, including Birdville, Carroll, and Corsicana, have canceled classes for Monday due to the impending storm. A complete list of closures can be found on the FOX 4 Closings page.
4:40 p.m.: Utility workers are on standby in Plano, prepared for any outages that may occur as conditions worsen.
4:30 p.m.: An emergency shelter for the homeless is set to open in Fort Worth in anticipation of the freezing temperatures this weekend.
3:30 p.m.: Multiple school districts have announced closures, with many canceling after-school activities. Birdville, Carroll, and others have already made the decision to close on Monday.
2 p.m.: The Dallas Mavericks are still planning to host their game against the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday, urging fans to arrive early due to weather-related adjustments.
1:30 p.m.: An Ice Storm Warning is now in effect through Sunday at noon for several counties in North Texas, including Anderson and Freestone.
1:10 p.m.: TEXpress crews have completed brining major corridors and will begin patrolling with salt trucks as all managed lanes have been closed until conditions improve.
1 p.m.: City officials in Dallas held a briefing to discuss shelters and emergency preparations for the winter storm, highlighting the city’s readiness to assist residents facing power outages.
12:45 p.m.: TEXpress crews commenced salting key roadways in anticipation of icy conditions, with managed lanes closing to ensure safety.
12 p.m.: Arlington ISD has canceled all after-school activities for Friday, with weekend events also being rescheduled. Officials are monitoring the storm for further announcements regarding Monday’s schedule.
10:50 a.m.: Meteorologist Evan Andrews explains how this winter storm differs from the one experienced in 2021.
10:30 a.m.: Teachers at Arlington ISD are sharing superstitions on social media in hopes of a snow day next week.
10 a.m.: Ice accumulation is expected in the DFW area, with forecasts predicting up to half an inch of ice followed by several inches of sleet and snow.
9:05 a.m.: Travel disruptions have escalated, with over 1,000 flights canceled at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and Dallas Love Field.
9 a.m.: The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo will proceed as planned, with organizers ensuring the safety of livestock and urging caution for attendees traveling to the event.
8:45 a.m.: AAA Texas has provided tips for drivers on managing the roads during extreme cold, emphasizing vehicle preparation and emergency kits.
8:30 a.m.: Emergency weather shelters are being activated across Dallas in response to the anticipated winter conditions.
8:15 a.m.: Record-breaking cold temperatures are anticipated over the weekend, with lows potentially reaching 6 degrees, along with severe wind chills.
8 a.m.: The Texas Department of Transportation has advised the public to avoid driving during the storm, implementing pre-treatment measures on major highways.
6 a.m.: Grocery stores across the Metroplex have seen a rush of shoppers preparing for the winter storm, resulting in shortages of essential items.
