Jan. 17—TxDOT crews began early brine application on state roads in Anderson County on Friday in preparation for an expected cold front that will drop temperatures below freezing and is expected to bring snow to the area.

Allison Prater, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Fort Worth, said they expect a cold front to move through late Friday night into Saturday morning, bringing with it much colder temperatures.

Prater said the highs Saturday could be in the 50s but would drop into the 20s overnight into Sunday. The temperatures are expected to rise into the 30s in the afternoons as we head into next week.

"The main concern, really, is going to be the colder temperatures in the morning," Prater said. "We are going to be in the teens and 20s through the first part of next week."

She said the wind chills are generally going to be in the teens Sunday through Wednesday mornings.

"So it will be fairly chilly Sunday through Wednesday," Prater said. "We want to make sure people bundle up and protect the four Ps, which are plants, pipes, people and pets — and make all their winter preparations."

Prater said there is a low chance for some winter precipitation.

"We do have some chances for snow Monday night into Tuesday afternoon," she said. "We are not expecting much accumulation, looks like most likely less than half-of-an-inch and we are not expecting any ice at this point."

Prater noted that the weather is still four-to-five days out and things could change.

"We want people to keep updated with the forecast," she said.

Warming stations

The city of Palestine is reopening the city hall lobby, 504 N. Queen St., Sunday, Jan. 19, through Thursday, Jan. 23, as a warming station to provide shelter during the upcoming freezing temperatures.

The city said it would reevaluate after Jan. 23 if freezing conditions continue.

"If you or someone you know needs a warm, safe place to stay, please take advantage of this resource," said Officer Freddy Nino.

TxDOT

TxDOT Tyler District crews mobilize Friday, Jan. 17, to begin early brine application on state roads in the eight counties the Tyler District serves. Crews will apply brine to major state roadway travel lanes, including I-20, US 271, and SH 110.

Crews have readied equipment and materials to treat other roadways as warranted. Coordination efforts with local municipalities and law enforcement are also underway. TxDOT works closely with the National Weather Service to have the best available information preparing for a winter weather storm.

TxDOT personnel are monitoring forecasts and weather conditions and will respond as needed to ensure roadways remain open and safe for travel when possible. Road closures and other conditions are posted and updated as necessary at DriveTexas.org. Get statewide road conditions by calling 800-452-9292.

Here are some safe driving tips should wintry conditions set in: — Avoid unnecessary travel if conditions warrant. — Be extra cautious on bridges, overpasses, ramps, turns and shaded areas that usually freeze first. — Reduce speed and allow extra time to reach destinations. — Increase the following distance between you and other vehicles. — If you start to slide, ease off the gas pedal or brakes and steer into the direction of skid. — Stay back at least 200 feet from vehicles treating roadways and move over for emergency vehicles. — Be patient. Your trip time could increase when adverse weather conditions exist. — Remain in your vehicle. If stranded, call 911 to alert emergency services.

The TxDOT Tyler District includes Anderson, Cherokee, Gregg, Henderson, Rusk, Smith, Van Zandt and Wood counties.

For questions or media requests, contact Jeff Williford at [email protected] or 903-510-9267.