Pipe-Bursting Arctic Cold Targets North Texas and DFW as Temperatures Drop Into the Teens and Wind Chills Near Zero

North Texas — A surge of Arctic air is settling into North Texas and the Dallas–Fort Worth region, bringing what forecasters describe as pipe-bursting cold conditions overnight and into the weekend. Temperatures are expected to fall below 20 degrees, with wind chills dropping into the single digits and near zero, significantly increasing the risk of frozen and burst water pipes.

Officials are urging residents to take immediate precautions, including dripping faucets overnight, as the cold intensifies and holds through at least Saturday night.

Arctic Air Pushes Temperatures Below Critical Thresholds

Forecast data shows widespread temperatures plunging into the teens by morning, with some locations hovering near or just below 20 degrees for extended periods. Cities across the region, including Dallas, Plano, Sherman, Wichita Falls, Weatherford, and Cleburne, are expected to experience prolonged sub-freezing conditions.

This type of cold is particularly dangerous for plumbing systems in North Texas, where pipes are often not insulated to withstand extended Arctic outbreaks.

Wind Chills Add to the Danger Overnight

In addition to low air temperatures, gusty winds will drive wind chills down into the single digits and near zero, making it feel brutally cold outdoors. These conditions increase the risk of frostbite for anyone exposed for extended periods and accelerate heat loss inside homes.

Forecasters warn that the combination of low temperatures and wind will be most severe overnight and during the early morning hours, when pipes are most vulnerable to freezing.

Why Dripping Faucets Is Critical

With temperatures expected to remain below freezing through the night, officials strongly recommend dripping or maintaining a light stream of water from faucets, especially those on exterior walls. Opening cabinet doors beneath sinks can also help warm air circulate around pipes.

These precautions are advised tonight and again tomorrow night, as the cold air remains firmly in place.

Widespread Impact Across the DFW Region

Temperature readings across the map highlight how widespread the cold will be, with values near 18°F in Dallas, 15°F in Plano, 13°F in Sherman, and 20°F or lower across much of the surrounding region. Even areas farther south are expected to remain near freezing, extending the freeze risk beyond the urban core.

This broad coverage means homeowners across North Texas should not assume they are outside the danger zone.

What Residents Should Do Now

Residents are urged to prepare immediately by protecting exposed plumbing, checking outdoor spigots, and ensuring heating systems are functioning properly. Those traveling or leaving home overnight should take extra care to secure pipes before departing.

As the Arctic air mass settles in, NapervilleLocal.com will continue tracking major cold outbreaks across the country, especially those capable of disrupting utilities, travel, and daily life well beyond their immediate regions.