Winter Storms

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Winter storms typically occur between the months of October and March in Tarrant County in Texas, and bring extremely cold temperatures and precipitation to the region. This combination of cold weather and wet conditions often causes snow and ice accumulations and can result in:

• Slick roads and slick sidewalks
• Downed power lines
• Road closures

Take the following actions to prepare for winter storms:

• Dress appropriately. Wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. Remember to provide adequate protection for your head, neck, hands, and feet as these are the areas where heat most easily escapes your body.
• Winterize your home. When temperatures drop below 32 degrees, the water inside plumbing fixtures may freeze. Water expands as it freezes, which causes pipes to burst. You can help prevent this from occurring by leaving the water running at a slow trickle and insulating all external or exposed water piping when pipes are cold enough to freeze.
• Winterize your car. Check windshield wiper blades and replace them promptly when worn out. Ensure fluid levels are at the appropriate levels. Make sure all lights are working. Have your brakes checked.
• Check that your tires on your vehicle are appropriate for winter conditions and inflated to the appropriate level.
• Avoid driving if possible. Drive only when necessary. Remember: most North Texans do not have experience driving in icy conditions. If you must drive, travel during daylight hours if possible, and stay on heavily-traveled roads where the constant flow of traffic will help keep ice and snow from accumulating.