Full Breakdown
Severe Winter Storm Hits North Texas
1/25/2026, 4:10:03 AM
Overview of the Winter Storm
A significant winter storm is currently impacting North Texas, with temperatures plummeting and road conditions rapidly deteriorating. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for North and Central Texas, effective from 6 p.m. Friday through 6 p.m. Sunday, alongside an Extreme Cold Warning from Sunday evening through Tuesday morning. The storm is expected to bring 2 to 3 inches of sleet in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, with higher snow totals anticipated in the northwestern regions.
Current Weather Conditions
As of Saturday afternoon, radar indicated a mixture of light to moderate sleet and snow across North Texas, with heavier precipitation reported in northwestern counties. Notably, a rare phenomenon known as thundersleet was observed in Bosque County, where thunder and lightning occurred during sleet. As temperatures continue to drop, road surfaces are becoming increasingly icy, prompting local officials and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to advise residents to avoid travel if possible.
Forecast and Expected Impacts
Temperatures are forecasted to fall into the teens, with a high of only 13 degrees expected on Sunday morning, potentially breaking the record for the lowest high on January 25. Wind chills are projected to feel as low as -5 degrees on Sunday and Monday mornings. Accumulations of ice are expected to reach between 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch in areas south and east of the Metroplex, increasing the likelihood of power outages, particularly in heavily wooded regions.
Power Outages and Grid Stability
As the winter storm progresses, power outages have affected over 50,000 customers across Texas, with the most significant impacts reported in East Texas, particularly in Bowie and Shelby counties, where more than 5,000 customers are without power. Despite these outages, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has reported that the power grid remains stable, with sufficient reserves to meet demand.
Criticism and Concerns
While ERCOT expresses confidence in the grid's stability, concerns persist regarding localized outages and the potential for further disruptions as ice accumulations increase. Residents are urged to prepare for possible power outages and to stay informed about changing weather conditions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Freezing rain will produce at least light accumulations of ice across all North Texas.” — FOX 4 Weather Team
- “Remember, once ice exceeds 1/2" thickness, power outages become more likely, especially in heavily wooded East Texas.” — FOX 4 Weather Team
- “Temperatures are still not expected to climb above freezing until Tuesday afternoon.” — FOX 4 Chief Meteorologist Dan Henry
This winter storm poses significant challenges for North Texas, with severe cold and hazardous road conditions expected to persist through the weekend. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions as the situation develops.
