North Texas Braces for Icy Challenges This Week

North Texas is in for a rough ride this week, with weather that's anything but pleasant. Expect a mix of rain, ice, sleet, and snow, making travel a hassle. Temperatures will stay well below freezing, so bundle up and be ready for some serious cold. Things kick off on Tuesday with a chilly start in the 20s, but it'll warm up to the mid-50s by afternoon. Clouds will roll in, setting the stage for more rain and possible ice by Wednesday. The real fun begins on Friday when rain turns to freezing rain and sleet. Saturday will bring a wintry mix, with temperatures stuck in the 20s. By Sunday, things will dry out, but it'll still be bone-chilling cold. Roads will stay icy, and any leftover moisture will freeze again overnight. It won't get above freezing until Monday afternoon, with highs barely reaching the 40s.This kind of weather isn't just an inconvenience—it's dangerous. The National Weather Service is warning about hazardous travel and potential power outages. The incoming Arctic air mass means most of North Texas will stay below freezing from Friday night through Sunday afternoon. To stay safe, remember the "4 Ps": check on people, bring pets indoors, protect your pipes, and cover your plants. And for goodness' sake, avoid driving if roads are icy. The timeline for the wintry mix is still a bit uncertain, but the most likely start is late Friday afternoon or evening. Some areas south of Dallas-Fort Worth might see heavier precipitation late Friday night or even around midnight. There's some good news on the power front. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) says they're ready to handle the demand. They've made improvements since the 2021 winter storm that left millions without power. Still, it's always smart to be prepared just in case. This week's weather is a reminder of how unpredictable winter can be in Texas. Stay alert, stay safe, and hope for the best.