Winter Weather Alert: What East Texans Need to Know

(East Texas) If you lived in Texas in 2021, you likely remember the winter storm that significantly crippled the state for days and caused widespread damage to thousands of homes and businesses. Let's hope we do not see a repeat of that winter storm in East Texas this weekend, but there is a chance of a significant icing event on the way.

What a Winter Storm Watch Means

The National Weather Service offices in Fort Worth and Shreveport have issued a Winter Storm Watch for the region beginning Friday at 6 a.m. and lasting through noon on Sunday.

A winter storm watch indicates that a significant winter precipitation event is possible. Snow, sleet, and freezing rain are possible, with accumulations of up to half an inch of ice on trees, power lines, and elevated surfaces, as well as on the ground.

With so much heavy ice, power outages are expected due to fallen trees and expect tree damage as well. Travel could be impacted through Monday morning as well due to freezing temperatures and precipitation.

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TxDOT Brining Operations

Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) crews are preparing roads ahead of the winter storm. Around East Texas, crews will be applying a brine solution to bridges and roadways that are usually susceptible to icing and windy conditions. With rain in the forecast on Wednesday, brining operations will most likely begin Thursday.

The brine solution is a mixture of salt and water, which is designed to help slow the initial freezing of road surfaces. Once applied, it usually leaves faint white lines on road surfaces. If you have to get out during the winter storm, you are urged to allow yourself extra time to arrive at your destination and to drive more cautiously.

Safe Driving Tips for Icy Conditions

During this winter storm, TxDOT reminds drivers of these safe driving tips:

• Avoid unnecessary travel if conditions warrant.
• Be extra cautious on bridges, overpasses, ramps, turns and shaded areas that usually freeze first.
• Reduce speed and allow extra time to reach destinations.
• Increase the following distance between you and other vehicles.
• If you start to slide, ease off the gas pedal or brakes and steer in the direction of the skid.
• Stay back at least 200 feet from vehicles treating roadways and move over for emergency vehicles.
• Be patient. Your trip time could increase when adverse weather conditions exist.
• Remain in your vehicle. If stranded, please call 911 to alert emergency services.

You can always check Texas road conditions ahead of time to see if it is safe to travel.

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ERCOT Says Power Grid Remains Stable

As East Texans are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and stay home, residents are also concerned about the availability of power. During the 2021 storm, portions of Texas and East Texas were without power for days. With below-freezing temperatures expected for 60+ hours this coming weekend, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) says the Texas power grid is ready and can handle the demand that will be coming.

After the winter storm of 2021, Texas has made extensive upgrades to the power grid. However, there is still a chance your home may be without power due to fallen trees on power lines, taking them out of commission.

You can see in real time exactly how much power is being consumed and demanded by Texas customers and how much of a supply there is. If the supply begins to run low, ERCOT will bring additional power-producing facilities online.