Midland, Texas – A potentially dangerous winter storm is expected to impact much of West Texas and southeast New Mexico beginning Friday, bringing a combination of freezing rain, sleet, and snow that could lead to power outages and nearly impossible travel in some areas through late Saturday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Midland/Odessa, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Friday morning or afternoon through late Saturday night for nearly all of West Texas and southeast New Mexico. Moderate to heavy ice and snow accumulations are possible, particularly across the Davis Mountains, Van Horn and Highway 54 corridor, Central Brewster County, and the Guadalupe and Delaware Mountains. Forecasters also warn of dangerously cold temperatures developing Saturday night and persisting into Monday morning.
Midland, Odessa, Big Spring, Fort Stockton, Alpine, Van Horn, Pecos, Andrews, Monahans, and areas near Big Bend National Park could see slick, icy roads and hazardous driving conditions. Elevated roadways and mountain passes are expected to freeze first, with ice buildup on power lines and tree limbs increasing the risk for prolonged power outages.
Residents are urged to delay travel, prepare for potential utility disruptions, and monitor updates as the storm approaches. The Winter Storm Watch remains in effect through late Saturday night, with additional warnings likely as confidence increases.
