Idabel, Oklahoma — Southeast Oklahoma faces a high-impact winter storm beginning Friday night, with major concerns for ice-coated power lines, blocked roads, and dangerous travel into Sunday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service, McCurtain County is under a Winter Storm Warning from 6 p.m. Friday to noon Sunday. Areas north of U.S. Highway 70 could see up to 4 inches of snow and sleet, while freezing rain may leave up to 1 inch of ice, particularly closer to the Texas and Arkansas borders.
Highways 259 and 70, as well as rural roads, may become impassable due to slick conditions and downed trees. Emergency crews advise residents to stay off roads and to prepare for multi-day power outages.
Ice buildup may also damage homes and vehicles. Officials recommend stocking food, water, and extra clothing, and checking on neighbors, especially in rural communities like Broken Bow and Haworth.
Storm impacts could linger into Monday morning. The warning remains in effect through noon Sunday.
