Gov. Abbott Holds Press Conference on Texas Winter Weather Response

Gov. Greg Abbott is set to address the state’s preparations for severe winter weather at a press conference in north Austin, according to a release from his office. The briefing will include officials from the Texas Division of Emergency Management, Texas Department of Transportation, Electric Reliability Council of Texas, and other relevant agencies.

State of Emergency Declared

Earlier this week, Abbott instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate the state’s emergency response in anticipation of the upcoming severe winter conditions. Parts of Texas are expected to experience disruptive snow, ice, and freezing rain.

Weather Forecast for Central Texas

As of Wednesday, Central Texas is forecasted to be mostly cloudy with a chance of flurries or sprinkles that should not pose significant issues. Temperatures will be slightly warmer, with highs in the low to mid 40s. Some sunshine may peek through the clouds throughout the day, according to KXAN’s First Warning Weather Team.

Shift in Weather on Thursday

On Thursday, the weather pattern will shift, bringing a slower-moving storm with warmer temperatures. Expect more cold rain and less wintry precipitation compared to Wednesday.

Winter Storm Watch for Dallas-Fort Worth Area

Further north, the Dallas-Fort Worth area is bracing for potentially messy conditions with lower snowfall totals but a higher risk of icing. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Thursday into Friday morning, with snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches expected.

Contributor Acknowledgment

Abigail Jones contributed to this report

FAQs

1. What prompted Gov. Abbott to call a press conference on winter weather?

Gov. Abbott is addressing the state’s response to severe winter weather that is expected to impact Texas, including disruptive snow, ice, and freezing rain.

2. Which agencies will be present at the press conference?

Officials from the Texas Division of Emergency Management, Texas Department of Transportation, Electric Reliability Council of Texas, and others will join Gov. Abbott during the briefing.

3. What is the weather forecast for Central Texas?

Central Texas is expected to be mostly cloudy with a chance of flurries or sprinkles, but temperatures will be slightly warmer with highs in the low to mid 40s.

4. How will the weather pattern shift on Thursday?

Thursday will bring a slower-moving storm with more cold rain and less wintry precipitation compared to Wednesday.

5. What conditions are expected in the Dallas-Fort Worth area?

The DFW area is under a Winter Storm Watch with lower snowfall totals but a higher risk of icing, with 3 to 6 inches of snow forecasted.