Tulsa, Oklahoma – Roads across eastern Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas are expected to become dangerous to nearly impassable beginning Friday afternoon as a powerful winter storm spreads snow, sleet, and freezing rain across the region, with impacts lasting through Sunday and potentially beyond.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect from midday Friday through Sunday afternoon for much of eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas. Areas north of Interstate 40, including Tulsa, Bartlesville, Claremore, Pryor, Tahlequah, and Fayetteville, are expected to see mainly snow, with totals ranging from 6 to 12 inches and locally higher amounts possible. Blowing and drifting snow may further reduce visibility.
South of I-40, including McAlester, Hugo, Stigler, Poteau, and Antlers, sleet will be the dominant precipitation type, mixing at times with snow and freezing rain. Total sleet and snow accumulations of 4 to 8 inches are expected, with up to a quarter inch of ice possible in far southeast Oklahoma, increasing the risk for isolated power outages.
Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly Friday evening and remain hazardous through the weekend. Major routes such as I-44, U.S. 75, U.S. 69, and Highway 412 may become snow- or ice-covered, with brutally cold temperatures compounding risks for stranded motorists. Officials urge residents to complete preparations early, avoid non-essential travel, and consider warming shelters.
Winter Storm Warnings remain in effect through Sunday afternoon, and lingering impacts could continue into early next week as cleanup efforts are slowed by cold conditions.
