On Thursday at 2:47 a.m. an updated extreme cold watch was issued by the NWS Fort Worth TX valid from Saturday 6 p.m. until Monday noon. The watch is for Wise, Denton, Collin, Parker, Tarrant, Dallas, Hood, Johnson, Montague, Cooke, Grayson, Fannin, Lamar, Young, Jack, Hunt, Delta, Hopkins, Stephens, Palo Pinto, Rockwall, Kaufman, Van Zandt, Rains, Eastland, Erath, Somervell, Ellis, Henderson, Comanche, Mills, Hamilton, Bosque, Hill, Navarro, Freestone, Anderson, Lampasas, Coryell, Bell, McLennan, Falls, Limestone, Leon, Milam and Robertson counties.

The NWS said dangerously cold wind chills as low as 10 degrees below zero are possible and could result in hypothermia or frostbite on exposed skin if precautions are not taken. Dress in layers including a hat, face mask, and gloves if you must go outside. Make frequent checks on vulnerable family, friends, and neighbors. Ensure portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills inside.

This watch is in effect until Monday at noon.

Understanding cold weather alerts

Extreme cold watch: Be Prepared. An extreme cold watch is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chill values are possible. As with a warning, adjust your plans to avoid being outside during the coldest parts of the day. Make sure your car has at least half a tank of gas, and update your winter survival kit.

Extreme cold warning: Take Action! An extreme cold warning is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chill values are expected or occurring. If you are in an area with an extreme cold warning, avoid going outside. If you have to go outside, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and make sure at least one other person knows your whereabouts. Update them when you arrive safely at your destination.

Cold weather advisory: Be Aware. A cold weather advisory is issued when seasonably cold air temperatures or wind chill values, but not extremely cold values, are expected or occurring. Be sure you and your loved ones dress appropriately and cover exposed skin when venturing outdoors.

Source: The National Weather Service