Tulsa, Oklahoma – Dangerously cold air is settling over eastern Oklahoma as a powerful winter storm brings snow, sleet, and bitter wind chills that will make travel hazardous and daily life difficult through the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, an Extreme Cold Warning is in effect from early Saturday through Monday, with wind chills dropping well below zero at times. Sub-zero wind chills are expected overnight and during the early morning hours, increasing the risk of frostbite on exposed skin in a short period of time.
At the same time, winter precipitation is spreading across the region. Snow and sleet are expected to increase Friday evening and continue through Sunday, with the heaviest accumulations likely Saturday night into Sunday. Much of eastern Oklahoma, including Tulsa, Bartlesville, Muskogee, McAlester, and Okemah, could see several inches of snow, while parts of southeast Oklahoma may deal with heavier sleet and pockets of freezing rain. Ice accumulations up to a quarter inch are possible in the far southeast, raising concerns for power disruptions.
Road conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly, especially on I-44, U.S. 75, U.S. 69, and secondary roads. Officials urge residents to avoid travel if possible, prepare emergency supplies, and protect people, pets, plants, and pipes.
Dangerous cold is expected to linger into early next week, prolonging impacts even after precipitation tapers off. Additional advisories may be updated as conditions evolve.
