This North Texas winter weather guide provides the latest Dallas-Fort Worth snow and sleet totals, NWS timing for Winter Storm Fern and essential tips for protecting pipes and the Texas power grid during the current Extreme Cold Watch.

Will schools close Friday? North Texas districts and universities are monitoring the inclement weather, as a winter storm is expected to impact the region.

UPDATE, 1/21/2026, 10:00 a.m.: Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has activated state emergency response resources ahead of expected winter weather this weekend. As of Wednesday morning, the latest forecasts call for up to 65 consecutive hours of below-freezing temperatures, stretching across Friday night, Saturday, and Sunday.

Texas emergency officials are preparing for a blast of arctic air expected to impact large parts of the state later this week. Forecasts call for plunging temperatures, possible snow in North Texas, and freezing rain farther south.

Precipitation chances are still low, with a 5% hourly chance between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. at DFW International Airport. The chance of sprinkles and flurries extends down into the northern portion of Dallas and Tarrant counties, but possibilities appear higher for counties farther north, including those along the Red River border with Oklahoma.

Chances are increasing that a winter storm will bring snow, ice, and plunging temperatures to millions across Texas this week.

The National Weather Service says the Austin area can expect freezing overnight temperatures, along with wind chills in the single digits and the possibility of freezing rain or sleet.

Many Houstonians will be finding hills nearby to go sledding down due to the snow fall. Before heading to the hills, check road conditions in your area to ensure they're not icy. HOUSTON - Snow in Houston means,