Residents across Oklahoma and parts of northern Texas are facing a brutal combination of snow showers and bitter cold. Light snow and blowing snow have significantly lowered visibility, with temperatures in Oklahoma City early this morning plunging to 5°F and wind chills hitting a harsh -14°F. The National Weather Service update, released at 6:52 am CST, forecasted snow showers mainly before noon and a high near 14°F.
A Winter Storm Warning was also extended by the National Weather Service until 10 AM CST today, cautioning that additional snow accumulations up to two inches could be expected. The National Weather Service warned of "slippery road conditions" and suggested that if people must travel, they should "keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency." For road conditions in Oklahoma, drivers were advised to call 8 4 4 4 6 5 4 9 9 7, and for Texas, 8 0 0 4 5 2 9 2 9 2. Furthermore, it urged individuals to delay all travel and to dress in layers to prevent frostbite or hypothermia if going outside was necessary.
Simultaneously, an Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect until 9 AM CST Monday. The National Weather Service detailed that "dangerously cold wind chills as low as 20 below" could be expected, affecting a large expanse of regions, from central to western Oklahoma into northern Texas. These conditions carry the risk of hypothermia or frostbite if proper precautions aren't taken. The warning advises locals to wear protective layers, including a hat, face mask, and gloves when venturing outside.
The weather will slowly improve, with Monday bringing partly sunny skies turning sunny and highs near 24°F. Even so, the cold will remain a challenge. Many residents are staying indoors while utility and emergency crews continue their work. Tonight, clouds will increase, with lows around 2°F and wind chills as low as -6°F, so people should continue to use caution and stay warm.
