Tulsa, Oklahoma – Another round of bitter cold is returning to eastern Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas following an Arctic cold front, bringing near-zero to subzero wind chills and prompting a Cold Weather Advisory from Friday night into Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, a Cold Weather Advisory is in effect from 12 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday for much of eastern Oklahoma and portions of northwest Arkansas. Wind chill values are expected to range from 0 to 10 degrees below zero, with the coldest conditions occurring late Friday night through early Saturday morning.
Forecasters also note a low chance of light snow or flurries Friday afternoon and evening, primarily north of a McAlester-to-Poteau line. Any snow that does fall is expected to be light, with little to no accumulation, and significant impacts are considered unlikely.
Despite minimal snow potential, cold temperatures combined with gusty winds may create hazardous conditions for those outdoors. Prolonged exposure could lead to frostbite or hypothermia, particularly for individuals without proper cold-weather protection.
Major roadways including Interstate 44, Interstate 40, U.S. Highway 75, and U.S. Highway 69 may experience cold-related travel concerns, especially overnight when temperatures are lowest. While widespread icing is not expected, drivers should remain alert for isolated slick spots during early morning hours.
The National Weather Service urges residents to protect the four P’s: People, Pets, Plants, and Pipes. Officials recommend dressing in layers, limiting time outdoors, covering exposed skin, and bringing pets indoors. Homeowners should take steps to prevent frozen pipes as temperatures drop sharply.
Students, early-morning workers, and weekend travelers should plan for bitter cold conditions and monitor forecast updates in case advisory areas expand or wind chill values drop further.
Cold but dry conditions are expected to continue into the weekend before gradual moderation early next week.
