Dallas, TX – Emergency officials across North Texas are urging residents to begin preparing today for potential ice storms this winter, emphasizing that freezing rain continues to be one of the region’s most dangerous cold-season hazards. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), even a light glaze of ice can snap branches, damage powerlines, and turn major highways across the Dallas–Fort Worth area into hazardous travel zones.
According to NOAA, North Texas’ history of impactful ice events—combined with fluctuating temperatures and widespread tree coverage—makes freezing rain a recurring winter threat. Ice can quickly create dangerous conditions along I-35E, I-35W, I-20, I-30, the Dallas North Tollway, and rural county roads. With more cold snaps expected this season, officials say today is the best time for residents to complete essential preparation.
According to the National Weather Service, homeowners should start by trimming weak or damaged branches around homes, sidewalks, and driveways. These limbs often fall first once ice begins to accumulate. NOAA also cautions drivers not to raise their windshield wipers before storms, as wipers can freeze to the glass and snap; keeping them lowered and covered is recommended.
Officials urge families to maintain at least a week’s supply of non-perishable food, bottled water, and essential prescriptions. Ice storms can cause extended outages across both urban and rural areas of North Texas. Residents are also advised not to park vehicles beneath trees, where ice-loaded branches may fall without warning.
To prepare for potential power loss, emergency managers recommend fully charging phones, flashlights, battery packs, and essential electronics today. Homeowners using generators should safely store extra gasoline and perform a test run before freezing rain arrives. Stocking rock salt or ice melt can also help reduce slip hazards on porches, steps, and walkways.
“Ice storms can severely impact North Texas for days,” the NWS said. “Starting prep today is the best way to stay safe this winter.”
