North Texas is bracing for extreme cold and significant snowfall this weekend. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Fort Worth has issued both a winter storm watch and an extreme cold watch in anticipation of this severe weather event. Governor Greg Abbott has authorized the deployment of state emergency resources to ensure preparedness.
Forecast Timing and Temperature Trends
The weather forecast predicts that temperatures will drop significantly starting Friday. The daily high of 50 degrees is expected at midnight, declining throughout the day to reach around 30 degrees by midnight Saturday. Wind chill will exacerbate the cold, making it feel like 24 degrees by sundown.
Friday Weather Outlook
- Temperature at midnight: 50°F
- Temperature at 6 p.m.: 34°F
- Wind chill expected: 24°F
- Precipitation chance by 6 a.m.: 67%
- Forecast rainfall at DFW International Airport: ~1 inch
As the day progresses, the likelihood of sleet and freezing rain will increase. The NWS anticipates a potential wintry mix to start as early as 2 p.m., but more likely around 6 p.m.
Saturday’s Severe Weather
Saturday morning will see temperatures fall to about 20 degrees, with wind chills at a biting 7 degrees. Despite a brief midday warming, temperatures are expected to drop again, reaching 15 degrees by midnight Sunday. A significant accumulation of frozen precipitation is likely:
- Ice accumulation: Approximately 0.2 inches
- Snow accumulation: Estimated between 1 to 2 inches
Freezing rain will be most prevalent overnight into Saturday. Snow chances will increase Saturday night, providing potential for hazardous conditions.
Sunday and Monday Predictions
The early hours of Sunday will be some of the coldest of this weather event, with temperatures plummeting to around 11 degrees and wind chills as low as -3 degrees. By the afternoon, temperatures will rise slightly to around 23 degrees.
Monday Weather Update
Monday promises slightly warmer air, with daytime highs potentially reaching 30 degrees. The early low will drop to 9 degrees, with wind chills at 1 degree. While modest sunshine is expected, melting of snow and ice may be limited without temperatures exceeding freezing.
As the cold front shifts away, conditions may become more favorable by midday Tuesday, allowing for better melting of the current icy landscape.
