Dallas weather: Thursday's storm could join the list of DFW's biggest snowstorms
Weather experts predict 4 to 6 inches of snow in northern parts of Dallas-Fort Worth later this week, a rare occurrence according to FOX 4 meteorologists.
A snowstorm of more than 4 inches has only occurred three times in the past 45 years, making it a once-in-a-decade event in the metroplex.
Here are the three biggest snowstorms since 1980 that brought as much or more snow than this week's forecast.
February 2021 Snowstorm
The 2021 snowstorm was one of the most dangerous weather events in Texas history, causing 246 deaths and leaving millions without power for days.
The storm brought about 5 inches of snow and ice, making roads treacherous because of lack of preparation. The metroplex saw temperatures as low as -2 degrees, with even colder wind chills.
Dallas-Fort Worth spent 129 consecutive hours below freezing, including more than 72 hours below 20 degrees.
The storm's deadly aftermath was caused by the failure of ERCOT power grids, leaving millions without electricity, according to NWS. Federal energy regulators blamed frozen equipment at power plants and natural gas facilities for the outages.
Featured
NTSB: 'Deficient' roadway maintenance, speeding drivers led to deadly winter weather pileup on I-35W
Federal investigators found the company responsible for maintaining I-35W in Fort Worth failed to properly "monitor and address icy roadway conditions" ahead of the deadly pileup during the Texas Winter Storm in 2021.
February 2011 Snowstorm
The 2011 snowstorm brought up to 4 inches of snow at DFW Airport, while some areas saw even more. Dallas Love Field recorded 5.1 inches, and Collin County and Terrell saw up to 6 inches, according to the National Weather Service.
This storm was also notable for its heavy sleet and thunderstorms, with wind gusts exceeding 50 mph.
February 2010 Record Snow Day
February 11, 2010, holds the record for the snowiest day in North Texas history, with more than a foot of snow across the region, according to the FOX 4 weather team. This same year, Arlington hosted the NBA All-Star Game at Cowboy's Stadium a couple of days later.
The National Weather Service recorded 12.5 inches at DFW Airport in 24 hours, while areas like Haslet saw up to 14.4 inches.
The storm caused widespread power outages, downed tree limbs, and broken power lines, with a major cleanup effort that lasted weeks.