Fort Worth leaders are urging drivers to prepare for icy conditions and avoid the roads if possible as a winter storm moves into North Texas, bringing the threat of slick streets and hazardous travel.
At a Glance
- Fort Worth leaders urge drivers to stay off the roads this weekend.
- City crews and TxDOT are treating bridges and highways with a liquid brine mixture.
- Courtesy patrols are ready to assist stranded motorists.
- Why it matters: The storm could create dangerous travel conditions and overwhelm first responders.
The storm is expected to bring icy roads across North Texas, and local officials are calling on residents to stay home if they can. They warn that slick streets could lead to accidents and that emergency services will be stretched thin.
Preparing for the Storm
Fort Worth leaders are urging drivers to prepare for icy conditions and avoid the roads if possible. The city and state crews have been pre-treating major roads and staging equipment across Fort Worth ahead of the ice. This early work aims to reduce the risk of accidents once the storm arrives.
City and State Road Treatment
Fort Worth city crews and TxDOT have been treating critical roads, highways and bridges with a liquid brine mixture. Officials say 30 sand trucks are on standby across the city. Once the storm arrives, crews will prioritize bridges and hospital entrances before moving to major hills and intersections throughout Fort Worth.
Toll Road Precautions
Drivers who use toll roads should plan ahead. All DFW TEXpress lanes are scheduled to close starting at 1 p.m. Friday ahead of the winter weather. This closure is intended to keep traffic moving safely as crews work on the roads.
Courtesy Patrols in Action
First responders – courtesy patrols with the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office – are preparing for what could be a busy and dangerous weekend. These teams patrol major highways to assist stranded drivers.
What Patrols Offer
Each patrol vehicle is stocked with emergency supplies, including gas canisters, flares, jumper cables, tire repair tools and cones. Crews also carry traction pellets to help pedestrians walk safely on ice and a flashing warning banner to alert other drivers when someone is stopped in a dangerous location waiting for a tow.
The patrols can also provide rides to the nearest gas station or safe stopping point to get warm. They can help with basic car needs in the field, thanks to the experience of officers like Bara Loeum.
Quotes from Bara Loeum
“The weather is unpredictable, but with this weather right now, we’ll take it slow,” said Bara Loeum, a courtesy patrol officer for Tarrant County. He also said, “We try to help with just about anything we can,” adding that his background as a former mechanic allows him to assist with basic car needs.
Loeum’s coverage area spans all of Tarrant County, along with Parker and Johnson counties – a wide stretch of road that can quickly see trouble when ice arrives.
Driver Safety Advice
Loeum warned that accidents happen when people are not paying attention. “Accidents. People are not paying attention,” he said. “They’re on their phones. It’s slippery roads. They’re driving fast. They’re not keeping their distance.”
He stressed that slowing down and giving other drivers space can make a big difference, but also offered simple advice for anyone who doesn’t need to travel. “If you don’t need to drive, don’t drive,” Loeum said. “Just stay home.”
He also reminded drivers not to panic if their vehicle begins to slide. “If you feel your car slipping, don’t step on the brakes,” he said. “Just release the brakes and let the car coast and slow down.”
City Leadership and Coordination
Mayor Parker said city departments are coordinating closely to prepare, but personal responsibility remains key. “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. “We are prepared…this team of people is working closely together to make sure you stay safe.”
The mayor emphasized that while the city is ready, residents must still act responsibly to keep everyone safe.
How to Get Help
For drivers who do venture out and find themselves in trouble, help is just a phone call away. The statewide courtesy patrol phone number can be found on the back of a Texas driver’s license. Call 1-800-525-5555 to connect with driver assistance anywhere in Texas.
The phone line is open 24/7, and officers are ready to provide assistance with towing, jump-starting, or getting a vehicle to a safe location.
Bottom Line
The winter storm poses a serious threat to North Texas drivers. With city crews treating roads, courtesy patrols ready to help, and toll lanes closing early, the best way to stay safe is to stay home if you can. If you must drive, slow down, keep a safe distance, and know how to respond if your vehicle starts to slide.
By following these guidelines and staying informed, residents can help keep the community safe as the icy weather rolls in.
—
