A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the area from 6 p.m. Wednesday, February 2 through 6 p.m. Thursday, February 3 and the National Weather Service is forecasting that sub-freezing temperatures are likely through Friday or Saturday. Find the most current weather forecast from the National Weather Service in Fort Worth here.
Travel is likely to be hazardous during the event and is discouraged. City crews are monitoring the forecast and will be standing by to treat roads, prioritizing major intersections and non-TxDOT bridges. We love our rolling hills and natural areas in Cedar Hill, but that terrain can make it especially hard to navigate in icy conditions. Stay home, if possible. If you must be on the road in these conditions, use extreme caution - take it slow, expect delays, and give other vehicles plenty of space.
Gusty winds and ice accumulation may also bring down tree branches and cause power disruptions. Take actions now to prepare before impacts arrive and continue to monitor the forecast for the most recent updates.
Remember the Four Ps
1. PEOPLE - Stay inside as much as possible. In addition to keeping your family warm, limiting time outdoors can help reduce the risk of car crashes and falls on slippery sidewalks and roads. Check on any elderly family or neighbors that may need extra blankets, winterizing their homes or a warm place to stay. If you must go outside, dress in layers and stay dry. Know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
2. PETS - Dogs and cats get cold too. Bring them inside when temperatures at 32° or less unless they have a well-insulated structure that: is large enough to curl up in and has a wind block at the door; includes a heated water bowl so that have access to unfrozen water; has a floor elevated from the ground with warm dry blankets or dry straw, and has heating or an outdoor heating pad. Signs that an animal may be getting too cold include: trembling, sleepiness, slowed breathing, mobility issues, dry skin, numbness, illness.
3. PIPES - Cover exposed pipes and faucets. Run water, even at a trickle, to help prevent your pipes from freezing. Open the kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals out of the reach of children. Keep the garage doors closed if there are water lines in the garage. Learn more about protecting your pipes and find out what to do if you suspect you have frozen pipes.
If, despite your best efforts, your have burst or broken pipes and need water shut off, you can call Utility Services at (972) 780-6643.
4. PLANTS - Either cover plants to keep them warm at night or bring them inside so they can flourish.
Power OutagesTo report a weather-related outage power outage, contact Oncor by calling 888-313-4747, texting O-U-T to 66267, downloading the MyOncor app, or visiting stormcenter.oncor.com.