Arctic air is headed to Fort Worth. Here’s how to protect your home, family and pets

Brayden Garcia
·2 min read
A man walks on the snowy Trinity River Bridge near downtown Fort Worth on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024.

Arctic air will soon arrive in Fort Worth and usher in some of the coldest temperatures of the new year.

A cold front will move into the region early Sunday, Jan. 5, cooling high temperatures into the 40s and lows in the 20s, according to the National Weather Service. Currently, the NWS says there’s a low chance of winter precipitation next week, but nothing is in the official forecast yet.

What the NWS knows for sure, is that it will be chilly in North Texas next week. Here’s a few tips on getting ready for the winter weather on the horizon.

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Prepare pipes for freezing weather

Burst pipes are common when temperatures drop below freezing. Here’s what the City of Fort Worth recommends on prepping pipes:

  • Insulate pipes outside the house.

  • Check if pipes in unheated parts of the home are insulated.

  • Make sure outside faucet washers are secure.

  • Disconnect hoses from outside faucets and use insulated faucet covers.

  • Make sure the water meter box doesn’t freeze by keeping the lid on.

  • Open cabinet doors that hold water pipes to allow heat in.

  • Keep extra water drawn up.

Keep an disaster supply kit

The Texas Department of State Health Services recommends Texans have a disaster supply kit handy for any type of weather event or natural disaster. Here’s what to pack:

  • A supply of non-perishable food for at least three days and a can opener

  • One gallon of water per day for each person and pet

  • Baby items such as food, formula and diapers

  • First-aid kit, medications and hand sanitizer

  • Soap and personal hygiene supplies

  • Face masks, sunscreen and insect repellent

  • A battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries

  • Matches and lighter

  • Emergency documents such as your driver’s license, current photos of family members and insurance

Take care of pets

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has a few tips for taking care of pets during winter weather:

  • If it’s too cold for people, it’s likely too cold for pets.

  • Make sure to dry off pets as they come inside.

  • Apply petroleum jelly or veterinarian-approved paw protectants to paw pads before pets go outside.

  • Feed pets extra during the winter months.

  • Make sure pets have a warm and dry space to sleep.

  • Never let pets off the leash on snow or ice.

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