Residents across Oklahoma and North Texas are waking up to brutally cold temperatures, as an Arctic blast pushes wind chills as low as -20°F in some areas. The dangerous cold snap has triggered school closures, travel disruptions, and warnings from officials urging people to take precautions.
How Cold Will It Get?
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), this polar vortex-driven cold front has brought some of the coldest air of the season to the region. In Oklahoma City, temperatures have plunged to 5°F, but with strong winds, it feels much colder. In Dallas, residents are experiencing wind chills around -10°F and conditions are even worse in rural areas.
The frigid temperatures have prompted extreme cold warnings across both states, with officials cautioning that exposed skin can develop frostbite in less than 30 minutes.
Major Disruptions Across the Region
The Arctic blast is already causing major disruptions to daily life:
- Travel Hazards: Snow, ice, and dangerously cold conditions have turned roads into ice rinks, leading to multiple accidents. In one bizarre incident, a semi-truck crashed on an icy Oklahoma turnpike, spilling thousands of eggs onto the highway.
- School Closures: Many school districts, including those in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Oklahoma City, have cancelled in-person classes or shifted to remote learning due to the extreme cold and hazardous road conditions.
- Power Grid Concerns: With millions cranking up their heaters, officials are monitoring the power grid closely to avoid blackouts similar to the 2021 Texas winter storm crisis. So far, energy providers say they are prepared, but Texans are urged to conserve electricity when possible.
How to Stay Safe in This Deep Freeze
Authorities are strongly urging residents to stay indoors and take precautions to protect themselves and their homes from the extreme cold. Here are some key safety tips:
- Dress in Layers: If you must go outside, wear multiple layers, including a hat, gloves, and a face covering to prevent frostbite.
- Protect Pets and Livestock: Bring pets indoors and ensure farm animals have shelter, food, and unfrozen water.
- Prevent Frozen Pipes: Keep faucets dripping and open cabinets to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
- Check on Vulnerable Neighbors: The elderly and those without reliable heat are especially at risk. Make sure they have what they need to stay warm.
When Will the Cold End?
Forecasters expect the dangerous cold to continue through Thursday, with temperatures gradually warming by the weekend. By Sunday, parts of North Texas could see highs in the 50s, bringing much-needed relief.
For now, officials are urging everyone to stay indoors, stay warm, and stay informed as this historic Arctic blast continues to grip the region.
