Dallas, Texas – A major winter storm is beginning across the Southern Plains, bringing a high risk of crippling ice, dangerous travel, and widespread power outages that could last into early next week.
According to the National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center, freezing rain and sleet are expected to develop across portions of north and central Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and northern Louisiana starting Friday and continuing through Monday. Many areas are likely to see at least a quarter inch of ice, with locally higher amounts possible where freezing rain persists the longest.
Even small ice accumulations can make roads impassable, while heavier icing may lead to downed power lines, snapped tree limbs, and extended utility outages. Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly, particularly overnight when temperatures remain well below freezing.
Snow may mix in on the northern edge of the storm, but ice remains the primary concern across much of the Southern Plains. Emergency managers urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel, complete preparations as soon as possible, and plan for the possibility of being without power for an extended period.
Behind the storm, bitterly cold air will settle into the region, slowing recovery efforts and allowing icy conditions to linger. Additional warnings and advisories are likely as the storm continues to evolve through the weekend.
