Record snow storm shuts down businesses, schools

Charles D. Hatfield Jr.

ELLIS COUNTY – Area residents woke up to more than 13-inches of accumulated snow Friday, Feb. 12.

A record-breaking snow storm hit Thursday night causing wide-spread damage to trees, carports and roads.

Several businesses in Ferris found their awnings in front of their doors, effectively shutting them down.

According to several sources, a cubic-foot of snow weighs between 12.4 and 20 pounds.

Billy Don Dunn, Ferris resident and councilman, said he measured 13-inches of snow at his house.

The American Red Cross opened a shelter in Red Oak Friday for the more than 2,000 homes without electricity.

Members of the local Texas Civil Defense provided assistance at the Acorn Academy shelter site.

Cleanup continued through Tuesday as the snow melted.

ONCOR, criticized for their response, had power restored to Red Oak by Sunday.