DALLAS — This weekend, Texas and Oklahoma brace for a massive winter storm that is expected to bring significant snow and dangerous ice potentially causing hazardous travel conditions.
Forecasters predict this storm will deliver icy conditions through the eastern two-thirds of the United States, raising concerns about catastrophic damage, extensive power outages, and bitterly cold weather.
Utility companies in the Houston area are on high alert, with thousands of employees set to respond quickly to service issues, while Oklahoma’s Department of Transportation has pre-treated major highways with salt brine. Moreover, freezing rain and sleet are also expected to hit other parts of the region.
As the storm system approaches, officials warn about possible ice accumulation that could weigh heavily on power lines and trees, leaving communities vulnerable to prolonged outages.
Approximately 160 million people remain under winter weather alerts, and a chilling forecast anticipates wind chills could plummet to minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit in places like Minnesota and North Dakota.
Additionally, many schools across affected states are closing or shifting to remote learning to prioritize student safety.
As panic-buying intensifies, grocery shelves are rapidly emptying of essential supplies, leading to widespread concern regarding access to food and heating during the storm.
The last major cold snap in Texas resulted in a widespread power grid failure, leaving millions without heat or electricity— a situation many are eager to avoid repeating this winter.
State leaders are urging residents to stay aware, prepare adequately, and heed safety warnings as the severe weather unfolds.
