DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF) – Conditions are expected to worsen across DFW into Wednesday as a winter storm bringing sleet and freezing rain lingers.
“We continue to be in the middle of an event that we expect will continue to extend for another 36 to 48 hours,” said TXDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. “The conditions are dangerous and continue to get worse. We continue to emphasize, do not get on the roadways.”
An ice storm warning was issued Tuesday afternoon for areas near I-35W and further north. The warning goes into effect for areas from I-35W and westward including Ft. Worth, starting Wednesday morning at 6 a.m. until 6 a.m. Thursday. A half inch of ice accumulation is expected Wednesday evening into early Thursday resulting in tree breakage and localized power outages.
A Winter Storm Warning continues elsewhere for persisting hazardous travel, throughout the rest of the Dallas metro area, until Thursday at 6 a.m.
Conditions remain slick across most of the region.
A Texas State Trooper was injured when getting out of a patrol vehicle to respond to a weather related crash south of Corsicana on I-45.
As winter weather moves across much of state, the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) is urging Texans to monitor and report local power outages that could result from downed lines.
“We expect to have sufficient generation to meet the power demands of Texas during this winter weather,” said Peter Lake, PUCT Chairman. “Our biggest concern is power line safety, especially in areas that experience icing. Ice can weigh down lines and topple tree limbs causing local power outages.”
Texans can use the PUCT’s storm resources information on the agency’s website to monitor local outage maps, find contact information to report local outages to electricity providers and useful safety tips. The Storm Resources Page can be found HERE.
Texans are also reminded never to approach downed power lines. Downed lines can still be energized and can energize the surrounding ground, structures, or materials, such as fences, trees, debris, or vehicles. If you encounter downed power lines, move to a safe distance, and contact your local authorities immediately.
Officials with ERCOT said Tuesday that the Texas power grid is holding strong. The council said it’s confident in its 10,000 MW of reserves.
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