Dallas Winter Storm: Crashes Rise, Polling Closed, 14K+ Power Outages
A potent winter storm, dubbed Fern, is impacting North Texas, leading to a surge in emergency calls, widespread power outages, and disruptions to early voting for a state senate runoff election. Authorities are urging residents to take precautions as dangerous conditions, including freezing rain and sleet, are expected to persist through Monday.
Emergency Services Overwhelmed
Increased Incident Rates
Dallas Fire-Rescue has reported responding to double the usual number of crashes, fires, and welfare checks since the arrival of Winter Storm Fern. Crews are actively searching for individuals experiencing homelessness, providing transport to shelters to escape the hazardous temperatures, according to Dallas Fire-Rescue Chief Justin Ball.
Shelter Capacity Strained
Shelters in Dallas experienced unprecedented demand Friday night, with over 800 people seeking refuge. City officials confirm shelters have capacity to accommodate more individuals and are encouraging anyone without adequate heating to utilize warming stations or overnight shelters. Residents concerned about neighbors or family members can request assistance by calling 311.
Voting Disrupted
Polling Location Closures
Severe weather prompted the closure of nine polling locations in Tarrant County for a special runoff election for State Senate District 9. The candidates are Fort Worth Democrat Taylor Rehemet and Southlake Republican Leigh Wambsganss. Most of these locations are expected to reopen Sunday, though some will remain closed.
County-Wide Impacts
All polling locations in Denton and Collin Counties were closed Saturday due to the storm, citing the health and safety of voters and election workers. The status of these locations for Sunday remains uncertain. Several other locations in Tarrant County experienced delayed openings Saturday morning.
Power Outages and Infrastructure Challenges
Widespread Disruptions
As of Saturday, more than 14,000 Texans are without power due to Winter Storm Fern, with nearly 3,000 Oncor customers affected in Collin, Dallas, Denton, and Tarrant Counties. Restoration times vary, with Tarrant County customers facing the longest wait – potentially until 9:30 p.m. Saturday – while customers in Dallas and Collin Counties may have power restored around 2 p.m. Saturday. Denton County is anticipating the fastest restoration, around 1:30 p.m. Saturday.
Service Impacts
City Hall is closed to the public through Monday, and residents are asked to be patient with city staff responding to non-emergency calls, as road conditions are slowing response times. Trash pickup may also be delayed, though crews may be deployed to address fallen trees and branches.
Weather Forecast
A winter storm warning remains in effect for North Texas until noon Sunday. The National Weather Service is urging residents to avoid travel, prepare for power outages, and have emergency kits ready. Snow, sleet, and freezing rain are expected to continue into Sunday morning, with life-threatening cold persisting through at least Monday. Accumulations of 1 to 5 inches of snow and sleet, and up to a quarter inch of ice, are forecast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of polling locations in Tarrant County?
Nine polling locations in Tarrant County were closed Saturday and some will remain closed Sunday. Thirteen early voting locations remain open.
Which counties have completely closed their polling locations?
Denton and Collin Counties have closed all polling locations for Saturday.
What should residents do if they or someone they know needs shelter?
City officials urge anyone without heat or shelter to seek out a warming station or overnight shelter, and to call 311 for assistance with neighbors or family members who may need help.
As North Texas braces for continued winter weather, how will communities balance the immediate needs of residents with the logistical challenges of maintaining essential services?