Winter storm watch: Map shows where Texans advised to delay “all travel”

Portions of Texas are under a winter storm watch starting on Wednesday until Friday and the National Weather Service (NWS) is advising that residents consider “delaying all travel.”

Why It Matters

Heavy snow is projected for portions of northern central and northeast Texas, the NWS says. Major cities including Dallas and Fort Worth are under this watch. Other portions of the United States were also majorly impacted by winter weather this week causing flight delays and cancellations.

Winter storms have been a source of concern for the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) system in the past. In 2021, a storm killed over 240 people and left millions of residents without power sparking intense backlash for ERCOT.

What To Know

Residents could see accumulations of three to six inches with ice accumulations reaching a tenth of an inch too, the NWS says.

The NWS warns that bridges and roadways may become “slick and hazardous.” The conditions may also impact commutes on Thursday. The NWS says people should consider “delaying all travel” and advising if travel is necessary to “drive with extreme caution.”

Below are the maps of the impacted regions:

What People Are Saying

The NWS says in their alert on Tuesday in part: “Consider taking a winter
storm kit along with you, including such items as tire chains, booster cables, flashlight, shovel, blankets and extra clothing. Also take water, a first aid kit, and anything else that would help you survive in case you become stranded.”

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a Republican, said on X, formerly Twitter, on Tuesday: “Directed @TDEM today to increase the readiness level of the Texas State Operations Center ahead of winter weather this week. Texas will ensure necessary resources are swiftly deployed. Texans are urged to remain weather-aware and regularly monitor road conditions.

NWS Meteorologist Juan Hernandez told Newsweek via phone on Tuesday: “The biggest area of concern will be the roads. Fairly decent snow accumulations happening somewhat rapidly. It also will still be cold.”

Hernandez said the area with the projected higher snow accumulations will be north of the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

The Public Utility Commission of Texas said on X on Tuesday: “Freezing temps, snow, and ice forecast across #Texas could trigger LOCAL power outages. If you experience outages, contact your LOCAL utility. Monitor outage maps and find utility contact information on the PUCT’s Storm Resources page: https://puc.texas.gov/storm/ #txwx #txlege“

What Happens Next

The watch ends Friday afternoon, the NWS says. Hernandez also told Newsweek that the region can expect temperatures in the upper 40s and low 50s going into the weekend.

“We are not expecting significant weather over the weekend,” Hernandez added.