Dallas, Texas – For anyone traveling across the South Central region in 2026, January represents one of the most critical periods for winter driving preparation as ice, freezing rain, and rapid temperature swings create hazardous road conditions from Texas through Oklahoma.
Transportation and safety officials across the region note that winter travel risks in the South Central U.S. are often underestimated. While snow totals may be lower than in northern states, ice accumulation, freezing rain, and strong winds can quickly make highways dangerous or impassable.
Officials emphasize that cars, trucks, and SUVs are all vulnerable to losing traction. Four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive can assist with acceleration but do not improve braking or prevent sliding on ice-covered pavement — a common issue during South Central winter events.
Throughout January, daytime warming followed by overnight freezing is common across Texas and Oklahoma. These conditions frequently create slick surfaces on major corridors such as Interstate 35, Interstate 40, Interstate 45, Interstate 20, and U.S. Highway 287, as well as on bridges, overpasses, elevated roadways, and rural highways.
January is considered a critical time for drivers to reassess vehicle readiness. Officials recommend checking tire tread depth and pressure, testing brakes, replacing worn wiper blades, and ensuring headlights and taillights are fully operational. Windshield washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures is also advised.
Emergency preparedness is especially important in the South Central region, where travel distances can be long and services widely spaced. Winter kits should include warm clothing, blankets, food, water, a flashlight, a phone charger, and traction aids when conditions warrant. Drivers are encouraged to keep fuel tanks at least half full in case of delays or closures.
Planning ahead remains one of the most effective winter safety measures. Sharing travel plans with family or friends, allowing extra travel time, and checking road conditions before departure can reduce risk. Real-time updates are available through state transportation agencies, with official forecasts posted at weather.gov.
Officials stress that winter travel safety in January depends less on vehicle type and more on preparation, patience, and decision-making — particularly in regions where icy conditions can develop quickly and affect long stretches of roadway.
