Erath County caught in icy clutch of winter storm.

By SARA VANDEN BERGE

Erath County and all of North Texas didn’t escape the winter weather gripping much of the nation.

North Texas is dealing with a rare winter event that includes icy roads, dangerously cold temperatures and power outages.

And conditions, officials say, are expected to get worse.

Stephenville Police Chief Dan Harris told Beneath the Surface News Saturday morning that there has been one weather-related accident in the city limits.

“There are a lot of slick spots out there and we expect a wintry mix coming after lunch,” Chief Harris said.  

“We are telling people to stay home and stay warm; enjoy the weekend inside.”

City and county officials are keeping a close eye on the weather and holding a joint meeting at 11 a.m. today to assess the forecast.

Erath County Judge Brandon Huckabee said crews are out and about preparing roads for freezing rain and ice expected later this afternoon and tonight.

“Tomorrow (Sunday) has the potential for worse conditions with ice accumulation,” Huckabee said.

A few power outages have been reported, but so far, it’s not widespread, Harris said.

Forecasters say the arctic blast will stick around for the next several days.

Sunday’s high is only expected to reach 22 degrees.

Monday – 28 degrees

Tuesday – 40 degrees

Wednesday – 41 degrees

Thursday – 43 degrees

Friday – 34 degrees

Saturday – 37 degrees.

Stay warm and safe out there friends.