Dallas, TX – If you’ve been enjoying the mild February weather, brace yourself—Mother Nature has a different plan. A powerful arctic cold front is racing toward North Texas, set to bring a jaw-dropping temperature plunge, bone-chilling wind chills, and the risk of icy conditions.
Brace Yourself: The Big Freeze is Here
Just when it seemed like spring was creeping in, winter is coming back with a vengeance. In just a few hours, temperatures will take a nosedive, setting up dangerously cold conditions. If you haven’t pulled out your heaviest coat yet, now’s the time!
How Fast Will It Get Cold?
- Saturday Night (Feb 15): The cozy 70s will be a distant memory as the mercury plunges into the 40s in mere hours. By midnight, it’ll feel more like the 20s or even the teens with the wind chill. If you’re heading out, layer up!
- Sunday (Feb 16): The high won’t get much past 46°F, and by nightfall, we’re talking deep freeze territory—temperatures will drop into the 20s.
- Tuesday (Feb 18): The cold reaches its peak. We could see temperatures dip below freezing across the region, and with the wind howling, it could feel close to 0°F in some spots.
What You Need to Watch Out For
- Freezing Rain & Ice: Rain lingering into the evening could freeze on contact, creating a slick nightmare for roads, especially bridges and overpasses. Drive only if absolutely necessary.
- Brutal Wind Chills: Winds gusting up to 40 mph will make it feel much colder than what’s on the thermometer. Prepare for that biting chill!
- Possible Power Outages: The combination of strong winds and ice could bring down power lines, leaving some areas in the dark and the cold. Keep those blankets and flashlights handy!
Stay Warm & Safe
- Find a Warming Shelter if Needed: If you or someone you know needs a warm place to stay, here are some options:
- The Salvation Army in Arlington (712 W. Abram St.)
- The Carr P. Collins Social Service Center in Dallas (5302 Harry Hines Blvd.)
- The Denton Corps Community Center (1508 E. McKinney St.)
- The Garland Corps Community Center (451 West Avenue D)
- The Arlington Corps Community Center (712 W. Abram St.)
- The Mabee Social Service Center (1855 E. Lancaster Ave.)
- The Lewisville Corps Community Center (880 Fox Ave.)
- Take Care of Pets, Pipes, and Plants:
- Bring pets indoors or make sure they have warm shelter.
- Insulate pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting.
- Cover or bring in plants that might not survive the frost.
- Drive Only If Necessary: Even a tiny layer of ice can turn roads into skating rinks. Take it slow, avoid overpasses, and check road conditions before heading out.
Dallas, get ready—this arctic blast isn’t playing around. Now’s the time to prepare, whether that means cranking up the heat, checking on loved ones, or making sure your home is winter-proof. Stay safe, stay warm, and keep an eye on the latest weather updates. This cold snap is about to make history!
