Oklahoma City, Oklahoma — One hundred sixty million Americans are prepared and monitoring what forecasters say is shaping up to be the largest winter storm of the season, as winter storm warnings and advisories remain in effect across parts of Texas and Oklahoma through Monday, Jan. 26.
For the southern Plains, this first phase of the storm is expected to bring a mix of snow and ice, particularly across northern Texas and much of Oklahoma. According to the National Weather Service, snowfall totals of several inches are likely across central and northern Oklahoma, while parts of northern Texas, including the Red River Valley, may see accumulating snow mixed with freezing rain.
The National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center places the Texas–Oklahoma region within a moderate-confidence zone for impactful winter weather from Friday through Sunday. Snowfall rates may become briefly intense, while ice accumulation could create especially hazardous conditions on untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses.
Travel impacts are expected along major corridors, including Interstate 35, Interstate 40, Interstate 44, and U.S. Highway 75. Transportation officials warn that even light ice accumulation could lead to significant accidents, road closures, and long delays, particularly during overnight and early morning hours when temperatures drop below freezing.
Residents are urged to complete storm preparations before conditions deteriorate, including securing food, medications, and emergency supplies. Motorists are advised to avoid non-essential travel during periods of snow or freezing rain and to closely monitor road conditions if travel cannot be postponed. Commuters and freight operators should expect disruptions that may extend into early next week.
Behind the storm, a surge of Arctic air is forecast to spill southward into Texas and Oklahoma. Temperatures are expected to fall well below seasonal averages, with dangerously cold wind chills locking any ice and snow in place and prolonging hazardous conditions even after precipitation ends.
While a brief lull in winter weather is possible between Jan. 28 and Feb. 1, forecasters caution that much of the Midwest, Plains, and East Coast will remain entrenched in a deep Arctic pattern into early February, limiting melting and extending winter impacts across the region.
