Abilene, Texas – A prolonged and dangerous winter storm is now bearing down on West Central Texas, bringing snow, sleet, ice, and bitter cold that could make travel nearly impossible through the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service office in San Angelo, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect from 6 p.m. Friday until 6 p.m. Sunday for all of West Central Texas. Moderate to heavy accumulations of snow, sleet, and ice are expected to develop Friday night and continue through Sunday, followed by dangerously cold temperatures Saturday night into Monday morning.
The storm’s reach spans the entire region, impacting major population centers including Abilene, San Angelo, Brownwood, Sweetwater, Brady, Coleman, and Junction. Roads are expected to deteriorate rapidly, especially bridges, overpasses, and elevated highways. TxDOT officials warn that prolonged icing could lead to extended road closures along Interstate 20, U.S. Highway 67, U.S. Highway 277, and numerous rural routes.
Ice buildup on trees and power lines increases the likelihood of widespread outages, particularly in areas that experience prolonged freezing rain or sleet. Emergency officials urge residents to delay all travel if possible, prepare for extended power disruptions, and assemble winter emergency kits with food, water, blankets, and flashlights.
The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through Sunday evening, and additional advisories could follow as colder air settles in. Residents should closely monitor local alerts and check road conditions through 511 or DriveTexas.org before attempting any travel.
