Andi Clay, Avery Clay and Ashley Evans ride Rosie, Bo and Sparky during last weekend’s winter weather event. Icy conditions and freezing temperatures closed many businesses, along with city offices and schools, but some residents still found time to enjoy the snow. Courtesy Angela Doan

Hazardous winter weather conditions continued to affect Farmersville this week, leaving roads slick, disrupting municipal services and prompting city officials and police to urge residents to stay home as dangerously cold temperatures and lingering ice slowed recovery.

Freezing rain, sleet and snow fell across the region over the weekend, creating hard-packed ice on roadways throughout the city. While sunshine returned in the days that followed, officials warned that improved visibility did not mean safer travel, as ice remained difficult to see and treat in many areas.

As Farmersville residents monitored the potential for power outages, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas said the state’s generating capacity remained below demand during the height of the storm. Because the amount of freezing rain was limited, no widespread outages from downed power lines were reported. However, Oncor reported nearly 10,000 customers without power in scattered pockets Monday morning, Jan. 26.

“Oncor workers continue to make steady restoration progress, working around the clock in 16-hour shifts to repair outages as quickly and safely as possible,” the electric delivery company said in an update. “Outage numbers are still fluctuating due to ice buildup and ongoing below-freezing temperatures.”

The Farmersville Police Department reported that roads across the city were slick and iced over, advising motorists to use extreme caution if travel was unavoidable. Officers urged drivers to slow down significantly, increase following distance and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns. Police strongly encouraged residents to remain home if possible, noting that conditions made unnecessary travel risky.

“While the sun may be out, road conditions remain hazardous throughout the city,” police said in a separate weather and roadway safety reminder. Officers cautioned against developing a false sense of security and encouraged residents to continue checking on vulnerable neighbors and family members who may need assistance during the cold spell.

Texas Department of Transportation crews continued managing major roadways in the area, but officials said ice remained extremely difficult to treat in some locations, particularly on bridges, overpasses and shaded streets. Drivers were urged not to pass TxDOT crews while they were actively treating roadways and to keep emergency supplies such as water and blankets in their vehicles.

As conditions persisted, City Hall announced it would remain closed Tuesday, Jan. 27, due to continued hazardous weather. City officials said staff would continue answering calls during normal business hours at 972-782-6151. That same number may be used to report after-hours electric, water or sewer emergencies. Residents were reminded to call 911 for any fire or medical emergencies.

Municipal service disruptions extended to sanitation services as well. Sanitation Solutions notified the city that trash pickup in Farmersville would be delayed until Monday, Feb. 2, due to unsafe road conditions. Residents with full trash carts were advised they may place additional trash bags beside their carts, which will be collected during the next scheduled pickup.

School operations were also affected by the storm. Farmersville Independent School District, which follows a four-day school week and does not hold classes on Mondays, announced that all district facilities would remain closed Tuesday, Jan. 27. District officials said the decision was made to prioritize the safety and well-being of students, staff and families. No classes or extracurricular activities were held.

Across Collin County, winter weather prompted widespread closures and cancellations, including area school districts and Collin College earlier in the week, as cities adjusted operations in response to icy roads and prolonged freezing temperatures.

City officials encouraged residents to conserve energy, protect pipes from freezing and remain cautious as overnight refreezing continued to pose challenges. Police and city staff also emphasized the importance of patience as crews worked through the weather event.

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