Brace yourselves, Dallas! A powerful Arctic front is barreling toward North Texas, set to bring bone-chilling temperatures, freezing rain, and dangerously cold wind chills. This week, the city will experience one of the coldest stretches of winter, with night time lows dipping into the teens and icy conditions creating hazardous travel.
City officials are warning residents to prepare for extreme cold, take precautions against frozen pipes, and stay off the roads when possible. The cold snap will last several days before temperatures finally begin to warm up toward the weekend.
What to Expect: A Day-by-Day Breakdown
Wednesday, February 19 will be the first full day of brutal cold. Even with some sunshine in the afternoon, the high will barely reach 33°F (1°C), and by night, Dallas will see one of its coldest nights of the season, dropping to 14°F (-10°C).
Thursday, February 20 will remain frigid, with a high of 34°F (1°C) and a low of 24°F (-5°C). While no major precipitation is expected, the bitter cold will linger, keeping roads icy and conditions harsh.
Friday, February 21 will stay cloudy and cold, with temperatures struggling to reach 35°F (1°C) during the day and dipping to 28°F (-2°C) at night.
Saturday, February 22 will finally bring a bit of relief, as the sun returns and highs climb to 53°F (12°C). However, nights will still be chilly, with a low of 36°F (2°C).
Sunday, February 23 will feel much warmer, reaching 66°F (19°C).
Monday, February 24 will fully break the cold snap, with plenty of sunshine and a high of 72°F (22°C).
How This Arctic Blast Will Impact Dallas Residents
1. Life-Threatening Cold and Wind Chills
With subfreezing temperatures expected for multiple nights, residents must prepare for dangerously cold conditions.
- Frostbite can occur in just minutes with wind chills in the single digits.
- If you must go outside, wear layers, gloves, and a hat to prevent heat loss.
- Limit outdoor activities, especially for children and the elderly.
- Bring pets inside! If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them.
2. Icy Roads Could Create Dangerous Travel Conditions
Dallas drivers are no strangers to winter storms, but this kind of prolonged cold could create dangerous black ice on bridges and overpasses.
- If possible, avoid driving on Wednesday and Thursday mornings, when ice will be most likely.
- Slow down and leave extra space between vehicles.
- Check road conditions before heading out, especially if temperatures remain below freezing.
3. Frozen Pipes and Home Heating Risks
The prolonged freeze increases the risk of frozen pipes bursting, which can lead to expensive home damage.
- Let faucets drip overnight to keep water moving.
- Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
- Cover exposed pipes outside and in unheated areas.
Additionally, heating systems will be working overtime, increasing the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Do not use gas stoves or grills indoors for heating.
- Keep space heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials.
- Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are working.
4. Power Grid and Energy Demand Concerns
With heaters blasting across the region, Texas energy providers may struggle to keep up with demand.
- Charge phones and backup power sources in case of localized outages.
- Keep blankets, flashlights, and non-perishable food stocked up in case of emergency power loss.
- Turn down thermostats slightly to conserve energy and avoid grid overload.
When Will the Cold Finally End?
The worst of the freeze will last from Tuesday night through Friday.
By Saturday, February 22, temperatures will climb above freezing, and by Sunday and Monday, Dallas will be back in the 60s and 70s.
But don’t let your guard down just yet. Sudden temperature swings can lead to ice-related accidents, pipe bursts, and delayed effects on road conditions.
Final Thoughts: Dallas, Stay Safe and Be Prepared!
This Arctic blast is not just a typical winter cold spell. It brings dangerous conditions, ice risks, and extreme wind chills.
Here’s What You Should Do Right Now:
- Stock up on groceries, water, and emergency supplies.
- Keep pipes, plants, and pets protected from the cold.
- Avoid unnecessary travel—roads will be icy and dangerous.
- Check on elderly neighbors or family members.
- Use heating devices safely and responsibly.
