At a Glance
- Kaufman County is preparing for an icy storm that could trigger power outages.
- Two warming shelters are open, with seven additional partners on standby.
- Residents are urged to stay home as roads become treacherous.
- Why it matters: Power loss and hazardous roads could threaten safety and daily life.
Kaufman County is bracing for a severe winter storm that could bring heavy ice, sleet, and snow, potentially disrupting power and transportation across the region.
Warming Shelters
Steve Howie, the county’s Emergency Management Coordinator, confirmed that the Terrell Police Department’s Rosenbaum Room is open Friday and that Community Life Church on 204 FM 1641 in Forney will open Saturday morning.
- Terrell Police Department’s Rosenbaum Room – open now
- Community Life Church, Forney – opens Saturday morning
- Seven additional faith-based partners are on standby if needed
These shelters lack backup power, so the county is working closely with local electric cooperatives to ensure any outages are managed.
Forecast
The latest weather outlook predicts a mix of half an inch to three-quarters of an inch of ice and sleet, followed by 2 to 3 inches of snow on Sunday.
| Day | Precipitation | Temperature | Wind Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday | Ice & sleet | 32°F | 10-15 mph |
| Saturday | Light snow | 30°F | 12-18 mph |
| Sunday | Heavy snow | 28°F | 15-20 mph |
The storm’s intensity could lead to slick roads and power disruptions if the electric grid is stressed.
Power Concerns
“Realistically, everything’s going to key around power,” Howie said. “If people maintain power, they’re going to stay home. I know that everybody has plenty of toilet paper and probably plenty of bread, considering what I saw at the grocery store. Sandwiches and stuff should be in abundance in their homes. So if we don’t have any major power outages, I think most everything will be okay as long as people stay off the roads. If we have power outages, then we’ll definitely be looking at the warming centers and potential shelters.”
Kaufman County is coordinating with the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), Trinity Valley Electric, and Farmers Electric cooperatives to monitor grid stability and deploy repair crews as soon as conditions allow.
Road Conditions
Howie warned that repair crews may not be able to respond until after the storm clears. He also said the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is treating major roadways, including interstates and highways, but not many of the farm-to-market roads that are common in Kaufman County.
“We’re asking the public to stay home and ease the strain on first responders already working around the clock,” he said.
“Some people will get out there and think that these roads are not any different than a rainy day,” Howie said. “I personally have seen them go by me at 60, 70 miles an hour on an icy road, and I just slow down and take my time because I’m going to be driving up on a wreck very shortly.”
County Coordination
The county’s emergency management team is monitoring the situation 24/7 and will issue updates as conditions evolve. Residents are encouraged to:
- Check local news and the county website for real-time alerts.
- Keep emergency supplies on hand, including batteries, flashlights, and non-perishable food.
- Avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary.
- Report any power outages or road hazards to local authorities.
Key Takeaways
- Kaufman County is preparing for a potentially disruptive winter storm.
- Two warming shelters are open, with additional partners ready.
- Power outages are a major concern; residents are urged to stay home.
- Roads will be slick; travel should be avoided.
- The county is coordinating with ERCOT and local cooperatives to manage any grid issues.
By staying informed and following the county’s guidance, residents can help keep themselves and their neighbors safe during the storm.
