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A hard freeze is underway across North Texas, prompting the City of DeSoto to activate its cold weather response plan and open a 24-hour warming center for residents as freezing temperatures and dangerous wind chills persist through the weekend.
The National Weather Service reports that temperatures dropped into the mid-30s overnight, with sustained freezing conditions expected through Monday.
Wind chills are making conditions feel significantly colder, increasing the risk for those without adequate shelter.
In response, the city has activated its Emergency Operations Center, which is currently staffed to monitor weather conditions and coordinate response efforts.
City crews are on standby to address roadway hazards and are prepared to sand streets if conditions worsen.
At the direction of Rachel Proctor, the city opened a 24-hour warming center at the DeSoto Recreation Center at 6 a.m. Saturday.
The center will remain open through 10 p.m. Monday and is intended to provide temporary relief from the cold. Bedding and food are not provided.
Pets are not allowed inside the warming center.
However, the Tri-City Animal Shelter has deployed a large, heated animal trailer on-site for individuals who need shelter for their pets while seeking warmth.
Due to hazardous driving conditions, all DeSoto Parks and Recreation and library events scheduled for the weekend have been canceled.
City officials are urging residents to take precautions during the ongoing freeze by limiting travel, dressing in warm layers and bringing pets indoors.
Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbors, family members and others who may be vulnerable to extreme cold.
Officials advise protecting pipes by dripping faucets and insulating exposed plumbing. Downed power lines should be avoided and reported immediately to 911.
For water-related emergencies, DeSoto Utilities is available 24 hours a day at (972) 230-9627.
The warming center is open to DeSoto residents and Best Southwest residents as space allows.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed by monitoring local forecasts, signing up for DeSoto Red Alert notifications at desototexas.gov/redalert, visiting desototexas.gov/weather, and following the city’s official social media channels.
For non-emergencies, residents may contact DeSoto police or fire departments at (972) 223-6111. Emergencies should be reported to 911.
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