An unforgiving blast of Arctic air is about to sweep into Dallas, bringing dangerously low temperatures that could put lives at risk. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning for the region, effective from Tuesday night through Thursday morning.
Meteorologists warn that wind chills could make it feel as low as -10°F, making conditions hazardous for anyone caught outside without proper protection. With temperatures expected to remain below freezing for days, Dallas residents must prepare now to avoid serious risks, including frostbite, hypothermia, and power outages.
What’s Coming: Day-by-Day Forecast
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Tuesday, February 18: Expect a mild start with a high of 50°F, but don’t be fooled—temperatures will drop rapidly by nightfall. Rain is likely throughout the day, turning into an icy mix as temperatures plunge to 18°F overnight.
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Wednesday, February 19: Bitterly cold air will settle over the region. Despite some sunshine, high temperatures will struggle to reach 32°F, and strong winds will make it feel much colder. By night, the mercury will fall even further, bottoming out at 11°F—the kind of cold that can freeze exposed skin in minutes.
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Thursday, February 20: The Arctic chill continues, with daytime highs reaching only 34°F. While the sun will be out, it won’t do much to warm things up. Overnight, expect another frigid low of 24°F.
How to Stay Safe in the Extreme Cold
With temperatures this low, staying warm isn’t just about comfort—it’s about survival. Here’s what you need to do:
- Bundle Up in Layers: Wear multiple layers of clothing, including hats, scarves, gloves, and thermal socks. The goal is to trap body heat and prevent frostbite.
- Protect Your Home: To keep pipes from freezing, let faucets drip slightly and open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate. Stock up on extra blankets in case of power outages.
- Check on Loved Ones: The elderly, young children, and people with medical conditions are especially vulnerable in extreme cold. Make sure they have a safe, warm place to stay.
- Bring Pets Indoors: If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them. If pets must stay outside, ensure they have proper shelter, warm bedding, and fresh (unfrozen) water.
- Use Heaters Safely: Never leave space heaters unattended and keep them away from curtains or furniture that could catch fire. Avoid using gas stoves, grills, or generators indoors—they produce deadly carbon monoxide.
How Bad Will This Be for Dallas?
This cold snap is shaping up to be one of the worst Dallas has seen in recent years. With below-freezing temperatures expected for multiple days, the risk of icy roads, power outages, and heating system failures increases significantly. Experts say this could be the coldest stretch of the year, and residents should treat it as a serious emergency.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has urged all residents to take precautions, emphasizing that this is not just another cold front—it’s a dangerous Arctic blast that could disrupt daily life.
Final Warning: Don’t Underestimate the Cold
As Dallas braces for this deep freeze, now is the time to prepare. Stock up on essential supplies, check heating systems, and make sure you have an emergency plan in place. The extreme cold will arrive quickly, and once it’s here, going outside unprotected could be deadly.
