Fort Worth is standing at the front line of an impending winter storm that could bring ice-slick roads and widespread power outages.
At a Glance
- A freeze is expected within 24 hours, prompting city leaders to activate emergency operations.
- Power companies are reallocating crews and equipment across Texas to handle potential outages.
- Residents are urged to stock supplies, stay off the roads, and monitor updates from local officials.
- Why it matters: The storm’s severity could disrupt essential services across the Southeast, testing the city’s preparedness.
The city’s emergency operations center in Fort Worth has been fully activated as the storm approaches. City leaders announced Thursday that they are coordinating closely with local and state partners, including the Texas Department of Emergency Management, in an all-hands-on-deck effort.
City Leaders Mobilize
Mayor Mattie Parker emphasized the importance of staying home and off the roads. “Once the storm hits this weekend, if you can stay home, please stay home and off the roads. That’s the most important thing for our emergency personnel that are out there as first responders,” she said.
The mayor’s call comes as the city’s Director of Emergency Management, Sonny Saxton, outlined specific measures to keep critical corridors safe. Brine has been applied to priority routes, including bridges, hospitals, major hills, and emergency shelter locations. Thirty sand trucks stand ready for 12-hour shifts to clear snow and ice.
Power and Transportation Readiness
Oncor, the region’s power distributor, has moved equipment and personnel to service centers across the state. The company is preparing to respond to any outages that may arise from ice-laden tree limbs, which experts say can become thirty times heavier than their normal weight.
Experts also highlighted that the storm’s scope will stretch resources. “You’re looking at impacts across the entire southeast, the eastern seaboard, up north, so we are aware that a lot of our partners are having to prepare in their own service areas with their own communities,” said spokesperson Carrie Dunn.
Trinity Metro plans to run its full schedule, but it has warned riders to prepare for possible delays or disruptions. The agency’s announcement follows a 133-car pileup on I-35W five years ago that left six dead and injured dozens more. TXDOT said this event could be the first use of variable speed limit signs on major highways.
Community Preparedness
Saxton urged residents to take practical steps: charge devices, have blankets and flashlights ready, and check on neighbors-especially seniors and those with special needs. “Do things like charge your devices. Have blankets ready. Have flashlights, essential supplies. Check on your neighbors. That’s what we’re good about in Fort Worth. That’s what we’re good about in Texas, especially our seniors and those who might have special needs,” he said.
The city’s emergency operations center remains active with less than 24 hours until the freeze arrives. Local officials continue to advise residents to stay home, keep supplies on hand, and avoid non-essential travel.
Impact Across the Southeast
The storm’s reach extends beyond Fort Worth, affecting the entire Southeast and the eastern seaboard. Officials have warned that the widespread impact could strain resources across multiple jurisdictions. The city’s emergency personnel are working with partners to ensure that critical services remain operational.
The city’s preparation includes not only power and transportation but also emergency shelters and medical facilities. Bridges and access points have received brine treatment, and emergency shelter locations are identified and prioritized.
Key Takeaways
- The freeze is imminent, and the city is fully mobilized.
- Power crews are repositioning to handle potential outages.
- Residents are urged to stay home, stock supplies, and monitor official updates.
- The storm’s scope could test the resilience of services across the Southeast.
By staying informed and following the city’s guidance, residents can help keep the community safe as the storm approaches.
