
As the College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinal at the Cotton Bowl approaches, a significant winter storm is forecasted to impact North Texas, raising concerns about travel and safety for attendees.
The matchup between the Texas Longhorns and the Ohio State Buckeyes is scheduled for Friday, January 10, 2025, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for the Dallas-Fort Worth area, predicting snowfall accumulations between 3 to 6 inches starting Thursday and continuing into Friday. This is notable for a region that typically averages just over 1.5 inches of snow annually. The forecast suggests that travel conditions could be hazardous, with slippery roads and potential disruptions to transportation infrastructure.
In response, Cotton Bowl officials have been in continuous communication with AT&T Stadium authorities, local emergency management teams, and the College Football Playoff organization. They have assured that contingency plans are in place to address any weather-related challenges. A statement from the Cotton Bowl committee emphasized their preparedness: “We always have plans for inclement weather. Should conditions warrant it, we will communicate to everyone attending and connected with this year’s Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic.”
Despite the impending storm, there are currently no plans to postpone the game or cancel associated fan events. The teams are scheduled to arrive in Arlington on Wednesday, ahead of the worst weather conditions. AT&T Stadium, an indoor facility with a retractable roof, offers a controlled environment for the game itself, ensuring that once fans arrive, they can enjoy the event without exposure to the elements.
Local authorities have begun preparations to mitigate the storm’s impact. Roadways are being treated with brine to prevent ice formation, and plans are in place to ensure safe travel for both teams and fans. Kevin Oden, the director of emergency management and crisis response in Dallas, stated that the priority is “ensuring safe travel for the teams and their fans visiting Dallas … .”
This situation draws parallels to the 2011 Super Bowl held at the same venue, where a severe winter storm caused significant disruptions, including injuries from falling ice and snow off the stadium’s roof. In the aftermath, AT&T Stadium implemented measures such as installing ice guards and a warm water pumping system to prevent similar occurrences. These enhancements are expected to contribute to a safer environment for the upcoming game.
Fans planning to attend the Cotton Bowl are advised to monitor weather updates closely and exercise caution during travel. Dressing warmly and allowing extra time for potential delays are recommended. While the game is set to proceed as scheduled, the safety of all participants and attendees remains a top priority for event organizers and local officials.
In summary, while the approaching winter storm presents challenges, comprehensive preparations are underway to ensure that the Cotton Bowl CFP semifinal between Texas and Ohio State proceeds smoothly. Attendees are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to navigate the inclement weather safely.