Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – A widespread winter storm is expected to impact nearly all of Oklahoma beginning Friday afternoon, raising concerns for hazardous travel, power disruptions, and dangerous cold through the weekend. Snow and ice are expected to spread rapidly, with conditions deteriorating by Friday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Norman, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Friday afternoon through late Saturday night for central, northern, western, southern, and southeastern Oklahoma, as well as parts of north Texas. Snow accumulations of 4 inches or more are possible across large portions of the state. Southern Oklahoma and areas near the Red River could also see sleet and a glaze of ice up to two-tenths of an inch. Wind gusts may reach 35 mph Friday, leading to blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility.
Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond, Stillwater, Enid, Lawton, Shawnee, and Durant are among the cities likely to see significant impacts. Major routes including I-35, I-40, I-44, and U.S. 81 could become difficult or impassable at times, especially during the Friday evening commute.
Dangerously cold wind chills are expected from Friday night through Sunday morning. Residents are urged to avoid non-essential travel, prepare homes and vehicles for winter conditions, and monitor updates as additional warnings or advisories may be issued.
