Tulsa, Oklahoma – Arctic air is pouring into northeast Oklahoma this morning, driving wind chills into the teens and setting the stage for the first round of winter precipitation later today and overnight, with slick roads becoming a growing concern.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, a strong Arctic front has pushed into northeast Oklahoma and will continue sinking south throughout the day. Wind chill values have already dropped into the teens across much of the region and are expected to fall further into the single digits by tonight as colder air deepens. Temperatures will struggle to recover today, keeping conditions cold enough for winter precipitation to develop.
The first round of wintry precipitation is expected to arrive later this afternoon and continue overnight, mainly impacting northeast Oklahoma, including the Tulsa metro, Bartlesville, Pryor, Muskogee, and surrounding communities. While exact precipitation types remain uncertain, forecasters warn that even light freezing rain or sleet could quickly create slick spots on bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads as temperatures continue to fall.
Travel impacts are most likely tonight into early Saturday morning, when wind chills will be lowest and any moisture on roadways may freeze. Gusty north winds will add to the cold stress, making outdoor exposure uncomfortable and potentially dangerous without proper protection.
Cold conditions will remain in place into Saturday, and additional rounds of winter precipitation may follow as the Arctic air mass settles over the region. Residents are urged to limit travel during the coldest periods, dress in layers, protect pets and pipes, and monitor updates as advisories or warnings may be issued.
