Bitter Cold Snap to Hit North Texas
Get ready, North Texans, because the coldest air of the season is forecasted to sweep through the region this week with the arrival of an Arctic front on Tuesday afternoon. After enjoying temperatures in the 70s over the weekend, a drastic change is on the horizon, with single-digit lows and below-zero wind chills expected.
Wintry Mix and Precipitation Chances
As the Arctic blast settles in, there is a slight chance of wintry precipitation as temperatures plummet rapidly. The interaction between the Arctic cold front and available moisture could lead to rain and isolated thunderstorms on Tuesday. With temperatures dropping overnight, there is a possibility of a brief transition to light freezing rain or freezing drizzle, particularly on bridges and overpasses. While the threat of icing remains low, caution is advised as slick spots may develop in certain areas.
Precautions for Extreme Cold
The Arctic front will usher in the coldest air of the season, with temperatures plunging into the teens and even single digits across the region on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. Coupled with a brisk northerly wind, gusting up to 30mph, wind chills are expected to plummet well below zero. In some areas northwest of Fort Worth, wind chills could reach as low as -10°F, posing a threat to exposed skin and potentially causing pipe damage.
On Thursday, while winds are expected to ease slightly, the bone-chilling temperatures will persist, with wind chills remaining below zero. It is crucial to take necessary precautions to protect yourself, your pets, your pipes, and your plants during this frigid spell, as North Texas braces for nearly two days below freezing.
Despite a slight warm-up on Thursday afternoon, with temperatures hovering around the mid-30s, a return to above-freezing conditions is not expected until Friday afternoon. However, relief is in sight as milder temperatures are forecasted for the upcoming weekend and beyond, offering respite from the harsh cold gripping the region this week.
As the 14-day forecast indicates, North Texans can anticipate a gradual return to spring-like conditions in the latter half of the period, promising a welcome change from the current wintry blast. Stay informed and prepared for the impending cold snap, and remember to prioritize safety and well-being as the Arctic front descends upon North Texas.
