Severe Cold Leaves Oklahoma in Freezing Grip

TULSA, Okla. — A deep freeze has settled over Oklahoma, creating dangerous conditions across the region as winter storms loom. With temperatures plunging into the teens and wind chills nearing zero, officials are urging residents to take precautions as the cold persists through the week.

“This is significant,” said Chief Meteorologist Travis Meyer from News On 6. “We haven’t had an air mass like this in a while. And it’s going to take a long time to get out of here.”

This morning’s temperatures have dropped to single digits, ranging from 9 to 14 degrees Fahrenheit, with wind chills expected to hover at or below zero. The region is bracing for more than 62 hours of subfreezing temperatures, intensifying concerns about frozen pipes.

Tonight’s forecast warns of potential frozen pipes and encourages residents to keep faucets dripping to prevent major plumbing issues. The sharp cold is expected to linger through Thursday, with high temperatures barely reaching freezing (30 to 32 degrees) and brisk winds keeping wind chills in the single digits.

According to the National Weather Service, a winter weather advisory is in effect for parts of northern Oklahoma and southern Kansas today. The advisory covers areas extending south and east of the Tulsa metro, where residents may experience a mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow.

“Although significant accumulation is not expected, the mix of wintry precipitation could lead to slick and hazardous roadways,” the weather service warned.

Freezing rain and sleet are likely to complicate travel in northern Oklahoma. Areas north of the Tulsa metro could see one to two inches of wintry precipitation, while the metro area itself might experience lighter accumulations near 1 inch.

Travel into Kansas, where winter storm warnings are active, is discouraged as heavy snow is forecasted to create hazardous conditions.

In Tulsa, temperatures are forecast to remain below 30 degrees for much of the day, potentially transitioning to freezing rain and sleet this morning. Officials advise caution for anyone traveling in advisory zones.

The Tulsa Health Department is also urging residents to receive flu and COVID-19 vaccinations during the cold months, as respiratory illnesses tend to rise with colder weather.

As the weather shifts, a warmer trend is expected Friday, with temperatures climbing into the 40s, followed by a cold front ushering in another wave of cold air and potential winter precipitation by the weekend.

In response to the severe cold, local shelters and warming stations are remaining open. The John 3:16 Mission and the Salvation Army Center of Hope are among the facilities providing refuge for those in need.

Travis Meyer and other meteorologists will continue to monitor the rapidly changing conditions, keeping the community informed as they navigate through this challenging winter weather.