A brutal Arctic blast has gripped Texas, sending temperatures plummeting to dangerous levels and prompting an Extreme Cold Warning across much of the state. The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned residents to brace for life-threatening wind chills, with temperatures feeling as low as -5°F to -20°F in some areas.
The warning remains in effect until 10 a.m. Thursday, as frigid conditions continue to sweep across cities from Dallas to Houston and San Antonio. Officials are urging people to stay indoors, conserve energy, and take precautions to protect themselves, their pets, and their homes.
How Cold Is It Getting?
Meteorologists report that wind chills are dropping well below freezing, making outdoor exposure extremely dangerous. Here’s a look at some of the lowest wind chill temperatures recorded so far:
- Dallas – 17°F, with wind chills as low as -5°F
- Houston – 22°F, feeling like 12°F
- Austin & San Antonio – 20°F, with wind chills near 3°F
With temperatures expected to stay below freezing overnight, authorities are warning that exposed skin can develop frostbite in under 30 minutes.
How Is Texas Being Impacted?
The extreme cold is already causing major disruptions across the state:
- Treacherous Roads – Icy highways have led to multiple crashes, including a semi-truck accident that spilt thousands of eggs onto an Oklahoma turnpike. Texas drivers are urged to avoid travel unless necessary.
- School Closures – Many schools in Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, and Houston have closed or switched to remote learning as icy conditions make commuting unsafe.
- Power Grid on High Alert – The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has issued a weather watch, urging residents to conserve energy to avoid strain on the state’s power system. So far, rolling blackouts are not expected, but officials remain cautious.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe
With extreme cold lingering for at least another 24 hours, residents are advised to take the following precautions:
- Limit Outdoor Exposure – Stay indoors as much as possible, and if you must go outside, dress in multiple layers to protect against frostbite.
- Keep Pipes from Freezing – Let faucets drip slowly and open cabinets to allow warm air to circulate plumbing.
- Protect Pets and Livestock – Bring pets indoors and ensure farm animals have warm, dry shelter and access to unfrozen water.
- Check on Elderly and Vulnerable Neighbors – Make sure those at risk have adequate heating and supplies to get through the cold spell.
When Will It Warm Up?
Relief is in sight! Forecasters say temperatures will gradually rise to start Thursday afternoon, with highs reaching the 50s and 60s by Sunday. Until then, Texans are urged to stay informed, stay warm, and take precautions to stay safe as this Arctic blast moves through the region.
