According to the National Weather Service, a strong cold front will arrive Thursday morning bringing the coldest temperatures of the season. Here’s what to expect:
- Temperatures will fall below freezing during the day on Thursday.
- The expected temperatures will likely damage exposed outdoor pipes and other infrastructure.
- Temperatures may briefly rise above freezing across Central Texas on Christmas Eve but will quickly fall below freezing again Saturday evening.
- Much of North Texas will remain below freezing until Christmas Day.
- The combination of subfreezing temperatures and windy conditions will result in wind chills falling below zero across the entire region Thursday night into Friday morning.
- Conditions will be life threatening for unsheltered or marginally sheltered populations.
- There is a low chance (20%) that temperatures will fall below 10°F across the DFW Metroplex and Central Texas.
- Strong north winds behind the cold front will persist into Thursday night. Sustained winds upwards of 25-30 MPH with peak gusts of 40-45 MPH are likely.
- There is a low chance (10-20%) for brief freezing drizzle and/or snow flurries across portions of North and Northeast Texas Thursday morning. Impacts to travel are not expected due to the very light nature of the precipitation.
How to keep yourself safe (according to the National Weather Service):
- Minimize travel.
- Stay indoors during the worst part of the extreme cold.
- Keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle if you must travel.
- Check tire pressure, antifreeze levels, heater/defroster, etc.
- Learn how to shut off water valves for potential pipe bursts.
- Check on the elderly.
- Bring pets inside.
How to dress (according to the National Weather Service):
- Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing, and a hat.
- Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves.
- Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold.
- Try to stay dry and out of the wind.