As a winter storm bears down on North Texas, the CBS News Texas First Alert Weather team is warning of freezing rain, sleet, and frigid wind chills that could bring travel to a standstill and cause widespread power outages.

At least 46 million people were under a winter storm warning as of Thursday as the storm spreads along the Gulf Coast Friday, according to the weather service. The storm should weaken by Saturday, bringing lighter snow between 1 and 3 inches to parts of the Northeast, the Mid-Atlantic and the Ohio Valley before exiting off the Carolinas.

A major winter storm hit much of the South with snow, ice and rain, causing major flight delays and cancellations. Some areas not used to snow got significant amounts, causing hazardous conditions on roads.

When it comes to winter storms, ice can be particularly hazardous. Not only is freezing rain challenging to forecast, but ice storms can wreak havoc on electrical infrastructure and vegetation, knocking power out for weeks and leaving roadways impassible. Travel becomes dangerous if not impossible, with roads becoming ice rinks.

LYNCHBURG, Va. (WSET) — Today is a Weather Alert Day thanks to the ongoing winter storm outside. Ice, rain, and snow are still possible as we head into Monday. If you can avoid travel today, it is highly recommended that you stay home.

Right now, we are still 48 hours away from the winter event, but as we get closer, it is likely to be upgraded to a Winter Weather Advisory or a Winter Storm Warning.

Icy roads, power outages and freezing temps are threats starting tonight as the Texas South Plains and Panhandle are under a winter weather advisory.

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