Winter Storm Hits Oklahoma: Snow Totals, Road Impacts, and Timing

A winter storm swept through Oklahoma on Thursday, January 9, 2025, bringing a mix of rain, sleet, and snow, with significant impacts on road conditions and daily life. Meteorologist Lacey Swope from News 9 provided a detailed breakdown of the storm’s progression, including expected snow totals, timing, and safety precautions.

The storm began early Thursday morning, with precipitation starting as a mix of rain, sleet, and light snow. Temperatures hovered near freezing, causing initial melting but also creating slick spots on untreated roads. Visibility was reduced during periods of mixed precipitation, particularly in central Oklahoma.

By Thursday afternoon, the precipitation transitioned to mainly wet snow, with the heaviest snowfall expected southeast of Interstate 44. Temperatures remained just above freezing until 5:00 PM, after which they dropped into the upper 20s. This shift led to slushy road conditions, with accumulating snow on grassy areas and elevated surfaces. After 5:00 PM, roads worsened as slush turned to ice, and some roads became snow-covered. Snowfall totals ranged from a trace to 3 inches in the metro area, with higher amounts of 3-6 inches southeast of I-44.

Thursday evening saw continued snowfall, tapering off overnight. Temperatures remained below freezing, causing any moisture on roads to freeze and snow to stick. This led to hazardous driving conditions, with icy and snow-covered roads causing delays and potential accidents. Friday morning brought icy patches on roads and sidewalks, with morning lows dipping into the low 20s and wind chills in the teens. Drivers were advised to exercise caution during the morning commute.

By Friday afternoon, sunshine returned, helping to melt snow and ice. Temperatures rose into the mid-30s, significantly improving road conditions. However, there was a risk of refreezing Friday evening into Saturday. The News 9 storm tracker team monitored the situation, providing updates to ensure residents stayed informed and safe.