Tulsa, OK – Residents across eastern Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas are being urged to complete winter storm preparations immediately as a high-impact winter system moves in Friday afternoon and intensifies overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from Friday at noon through Sunday afternoon, bringing a combination of heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain that could make travel dangerous or impossible at times.
Forecasters say areas north of Interstate 40, including Tulsa, Bartlesville, and Miami, could see 6 to 12 inches of snow by Sunday. Locations south of I-40, including McAlester and Hugo, are expected to receive 3 to 5 inches of snow and sleet, with ¼ to ¾ inch of freezing rain possible closer to the Red River.
Winter precipitation is expected to begin Friday afternoon, with conditions rapidly deteriorating Friday night. The heaviest impacts are forecast from Friday night through Saturday, with additional snow and sleet lingering into Sunday. Road conditions are expected to remain hazardous well into early next week due to prolonged cold.
The storm will be followed by dangerously cold temperatures, with an Extreme Cold Watch in effect from Friday night through Monday morning. Wind chills could drop to 5 to 15 degrees below zero, increasing the risk of frostbite and frozen pipes.
Officials warn that power outages are possible, particularly in areas experiencing significant ice accumulation. Residents are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel, stock emergency supplies, and ensure vehicles are equipped with winter safety kits.
The National Weather Service advises completing all storm preparations by early Friday and closely monitoring updated forecasts as conditions evolve.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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