City of Fort Worth Winter Weather Tips

 

Weather Update

Cold Weather Update

Updated Wednesday, Jan. 22, at 7:30 p.m.

 

Very cold temperatures and the potential for wintry precipitation arrive on Friday, and the City of Fort Worth is reminding the community about resources to support and protect vulnerable populations.

 

The City of Fort Worth works collaboratively with multiple City departments, regular emergency shelter operators, public safety and emergency management, overflow shelter operator When We Love, and Trinity Metro to implement a plan that ensures shelter demand will not exceed capacity during a cold weather activation.

 

Forecast summary

An Extreme Cold Watch is in effect from Saturday evening through Monday morning.A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for starting Friday afternoon and continuing through late Saturday night. 

 

Friday Timing

The arrival time of subfreezing temperatures and the expected transition to wintry weather has slowed down slightly from previous forecasts.

 

Good news: This means the Friday afternoon and evening commute will not be affected across a majority of the area, with a cold rain persisting through most of the daytime.

 

Bad news: A more gradual arrival of cold air means that a slower transition from rain to freezing rain to sleet will occur, with a longer period of freezing rain becoming increasingly likely. This has increased the forecast ice accumulation across most of the area.

 

Anticipated Impacts:

o Transportation hazards

o Power outages due to ice on trees/powerlines

o Extreme cold

o Wind gusts up to 20 mph

 

 

Weather Forcast and Tips

  • Weather forecasts indicate the possibility of over 60 consecutive hours of subfreezing temperatures occurring in the next few days.

 

  • That means it’s a good idea to take steps now to keep water pipes at homes and businesses from freezing and possibly bursting.

 

  • First: Find and learn how to shut off the water to your location at the private shut-off valve. Check this valve now to make sure it is working.Make sure everyone in the household knows where this valve is in case a pipe breaks and you need to turn the water off in a hurry. Fort Worth Water realizes you can’t always wait for a crew to show up in an emergency and will allow you to shut off the water at the meter. Be careful when removing and replacing the lid so you do not damage the wires attached to the radio transmitter.

 

Second: Here are some prevention tips:

 

  • What to do if you have no water: If it’s from a frozen pipe, it is safest to call a plumber to handle the problem. The pipe may be cracked and will burst when thawed. Don’t use an electrical appliance to heat the pipe. This could cause the pipe to burst, creating the risk of electrocution.

 

  • What to do in case of a water main break: Report the location of the running water or buckled pavement immediately by calling 817-392-4477 or by using the MyFW app.

 

  • Make sure all outside pipes are insulated. Disconnect hoses from the faucet and cover the faucet and any external pipes.

 

  • Check to see that pipes in unheated parts of your home or business (including crawl and attic spaces, under cabinets) are insulated.

 

  • Open cabinet doors that contain water pipes to allow heat to enter the areas. This may not be an option if you have children or pets and store hazardous materials in these cabinets.

 

  • Turn off or unplug your irrigation system during the winter to prevent ice on sidewalks or streets. Drain the lines to prevent them from freezing and bursting.

 

  • Commercial buildings with fire sprinklers should leave the heat on overnight and on weekends when subfreezing temperatures are forecast.

 

  • Keep extra water on hand during freezing weather in case a main break or frozen pipe cuts off your water supply.

 

Preparing for cold weather if you have pets  

 

FWACC urges all pet owners to bring pets indoors whenever possible during extreme cold. If it is too cold for you, it is too cold for them.

If your pet must remain outdoors and you need help keeping them safe and warm, FWACC is offering free straw, dog houses, food, and sweaters for community members in need. Please contact FWACCINTAKES@fortworthtexas.gov as soon as possible for assistance.

 

  • Bring pets indoors during extreme temperatures

  • Bring all pets indoors when temperatures drop below 20 degrees. 

  • Puppies, kittens, senior pets, and shorthaired animals should be brought inside when temperatures fall below 35 degrees. 

  • Cold weather can be life-threatening, especially for vulnerable pets.

  • Provide proper shelter for outdoor pets

  • Outdoor shelters should be:

  • Elevated off the ground
  • Enclosed on at least three sides
  • Filled with dry bedding such as straw (Smaller, well-insulated shelters retain heat better than large spaces.  
  • Ensure access to fresh, unfrozen water
  • Pets can become dehydrated in cold weather. Check water bowls frequently and use heated bowls if possible to prevent freezing.
  • Protect paws from ice and salt
  • Ice melt and road salt can irritate paws and be harmful if ingested. Wipe your pet’s paws after outdoor walks and watch for limping or excessive licking.
  • Keep cats indoors and check warm hiding spots
  • Outdoor cats are especially vulnerable in freezing temperatures.
  • Cats may seek warmth under car hoods, so tap the hood or check underneath before starting your vehicle.
  • Leash dogs during winter walks
  • Leashing prevents pets from slipping on ice, falling into icy ditches, or becoming disoriented in winter conditions.
  • Make sure ID tags and microchip information are up to date.

 

 

 

  • Never leave pets in vehicles
  • Vehicles can become dangerously cold very quickly.
  • Pets are at risk of hypothermia and carbon monoxide exposure, even during short stops.
  • Provide extra care for senior pets
  • Cold weather can worsen arthritis and joint pain.
    • Limit outdoor time and provide extra warmth with blankets or heated pet beds.
  • Use proper clothing and indoor accommodations
    • Pet sweaters, coats, and indoor training pads can help keep pets warm and comfortable while indoors.
  • Groom longhaired pets regularly
    • Long fur can help with warmth, but matted hair reduces insulation.
    • Regular grooming helps longhaired pets retain body heat more effectively.
  • Use caution around heat sources
    • Space heaters, fireplaces, and heating pads can cause burns.
      • Always supervise pets and provide safe, pet-approved warming options.
  • Prepare for winter emergencies
    • Have an emergency kit ready that includes pet food, water, medications, and supplies in case of power outages or prolonged indoor stays.
  • Adjust food intake if needed
  • Outdoor pets may burn more calories trying to stay warm.
    • Ensure they receive adequate nutrition to meet increased energy needs.
  • Watch for antifreeze hazards
    •  Antifreeze is extremely toxic to pets.
    • Clean spills immediately and contact a veterinarian right away if ingestion is suspected.
  • Report animals in distress

 

If you see an animal in need during extreme cold:

Call 817-392-1234

Use the MyFW app