The NWS Fort Worth TX issued an updated winter storm watch at 2:47 a.m. on Thursday valid from Friday noon until Sunday 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, Eastland, Erath, Somervell, Ellis and Comanche counties.

Heavy mixed precipitation is possible, with total snow and sleet accumulations between 1 and 5 inches and ice accumulations between a quarter and one half of an inch possible, with isolated ice accumulations up to three quarters of an inch, according to the NWS.

Strong winds and the weight of snow on tree limbs may down power lines and could cause sporadic power outages. Significant ice accumulation on power lines and tree limbs may cause widespread and long-lasting power outages. Expect power outages and tree damage due to the ice. Travel could be impossible. Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation and consider delaying all travel. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and take a winter storm kit, including tire chains, booster cables, a flashlight, a shovel, blankets, and extra clothing. Also take water, a first aid kit, and anything else that would help you survive in case you become stranded.

This watch is in effect until Sunday at noon.

Winter weather driving tips from the NWS

On average, weather-related vehicle crashes kill more than 6,000 people nationwide and injure more than 480,000 people each year. Slow down to stay safe if you must travel during periods of snow or freezing rain. If the temperature outside is near freezing, it is safest to assume ice is present on roadways and drive accordingly. If there is ice on power lines or tree branches, the weight may cause them to snap and fall. Avoid driving during those conditions if possible. If you must go out, choose a route with the least number of trees and power lines. Never touch a downed power line, and call 911 if you encounter one. Here are some additional winter weather driving tips:

• If you must travel out of town, and dangerous winter weather conditions are expected, be sure to tell your family or friends where you are going, your intended route, and the time of arrival.

• Make sure your gas tank is full. Carry a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket and additional warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food.

• Don’t panic if you become stranded. Call someone to let them know you are stranded. Do not try to walk to safety. Attach a cloth to your car antenna or mirror to indicate you need help. Use the dome light and flashers to make your vehicle more noticeable.

• Be alert for snow plows, and allow plenty of room for them to pass. If you are going around a plow, only do so when you can see the road ahead of the plow.

• Check road conditions before you depart.

Source: The National Weather Service