Residents in Colleyville are receiving firewood as the metroplex prepares for winter storms. North Texans are getting ready for the cold weather and potential snowstorm in the following ways:
DallasBy Wednesday, a powerful storm system is predicted to form over Arizona and travel into northern Mexico, where it may bring flurries or very light snow to North Texas. AAA Texas is warning drivers to use caution when driving in the winter. Preventive maintenance greatly lowers the chance of becoming stuck in the cold and is essential for safe driving. Having a winter emergency pack is crucial in case of a breakdown. About 40% of American drivers told AAA that they don’t carry such a kit, according to AAA Texas.
In bad weather, drivers should postpone their excursions and keep abreast of forecasts. Observe all advice and cautions given by local authorities. Before you leave, let others know your route, destination, and anticipated time of arrival.
(Image courtesy of Getty Images/MediaNews Group/Reading Eagle/Ben Hasty)
Have a vehicle emergency kit for winter weather
-
Traction aids (sand, salt, non-clumping cat litter or traction mats)
-
Shovel
-
Flashlight with extra batteries
-
Jumper cables or jump pack
-
Basic toolkit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench, duct tape, plastic zip ties)
-
Tarp, raincoat and gloves to help stay clean/dry if you must get out of the vehicle
-
Rags, paper towels or pre-moistened wipes
-
Warning devices (flares, reflective triangles or LED beacons)
-
First-aid kit (check expiration date)
-
Drinking water
-
Snacks/food for your passengers and any pets
-
Ice scraper
-
Snow brush
-
Winter windshield washer solvent
-
Warm gloves, clothes, hats and blankets for all passengers in your car
-
Car charger for mobile phone
Download the
FOX 4 Weather app
and stay tuned to FOX 4 for the latest information.
Are we getting snow?
A wintry mix of snow, sleet, or rain is likely to occur on Thursday. It is anticipated that this combination will pass quickly, clearing away by Thursday evening.
Three days out, the specifics are still unknown, but regions that receive snow might see accumulations of two to four inches. As the storm moves closer, forecasts will be improved.
By Friday morning, the system should be gone, but untreated roads might still be icy or slushy, particularly if the temperature stays close to or below freezing. Overnight, any leftover slush could refreeze.
Dallas weather: Snow storm weather forecast
Dallas, get ready! A wintry mix may be approaching, and freezing temperatures are already here. Learn when your week may be affected by snow and ice, as well as how long the cold spell is expected to linger.
Preparing a vehicle for driving in winter weather
Before driving, drivers should make sure their windshield is clean on the inside and exterior. Clear the snow and ice from every window using an ice scraper.
Make sure that both your defrosters and wiper blades are in good operating order.
To prevent other drivers from becoming blinded by snow blowing off your car, make sure all snow and ice have been brushed off your car before you drive.
(Image courtesy of AFP/Jim Watson) (Image courtesy of AFP/Jim Watson via Getty Images)
Check your tires
Your tires’ pressure decreases as the temperature drops.
According to AAA, poor handling and braking are caused by low tire pressure. Additionally, this results in excessive tire wear and lowers gas mileage.
Additionally, how fast you can stop on wet roads depends on the tread of your tires. Placing an upside-down quarter (not a coin) in a tire tread is a simple method of figuring out whether a tire is worn out. It’s time to replace the tire if Washington’s head is visible.
Driving In Winter Conditions
If you must drive in winter conditions, you should lower your speed, make sure your headlights are on, and put adequate distance between you and the car in front of you in case you need to stop fast.
Apply a light brake to prevent sliding. On slick roads, even cautious and skilled drivers can skid. Avoid panicking and applying the brakes too quickly when a car starts to skid. Instead, keep your eyes on the road and steer the car in the direction you want it to travel.
Avoid operating your cruise control on any icy, wet, or snow-covered roadways.
Be wary of potential ice spots because bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas are typically the first to freeze.
Keep in mind that Texas has a law called the Slow Down Move Over Law that mandates that cars move out of the lane nearest to an emergency vehicle or tow truck whose lights are flashing. They must reduce their speed to 20 miles per hour below the posted limit if they are unable to exit the lane safely.
For the most up-to-date information, download the FOX 4 Weather app and tune in to FOX 4.
Additional Winter Driving Safety Tips from AAA Texas:
Every time you enter the car, fasten your seat belt.
Never preheat a car in a garage or other enclosed space. In actuality, idle time before driving is not necessary for current cars.
Verify that there isn’t any mud, snow, or ice blocking the exhaust pipe. When the engine is operating, a clogged exhaust could allow lethal carbon monoxide gas to seep into the passenger area.
Never leave the engine running in your car while you are not there.
To prevent gas line freeze-up, keep your gas tank at least half filled.
-
This article’s information comes from Evan Andrews of FOX 4, AAA, and Discount Tire.
This article’s information comes from Evan Andrews of FOX 4, AAA, and Discount Tire.
Note: Every piece of content is rigorously reviewed by our team of experienced writers and editors to ensure its accuracy. Our writers use credible sources and adhere to strict fact-checking protocols to verify all claims and data before publication. If an error is identified, we promptly correct it and strive for transparency in all updates, feel free to reach out to us via email. We appreciate your trust and support!
