A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for northwestern Oklahoma until 9 AM this Wednesday morning. The advisory, which extends from the NW OKC Metro area across the region, is the result of low clouds, drizzle, and fog, combined with temperatures below freezing. These conditions are causing icy patches on bridges and overpasses, prompting caution for drivers. The advisory highlights the need to use extra care when driving this morning, as conditions are hazardous.
According to the National Weather Service, shallow Arctic air is currently entrenched across most of northern Oklahoma, maintaining temperatures between the mid to upper 40s along and north of the I-40 corridor. Meteorologists anticipate the boundary of this cold front may slowly move northward later today, potentially leading to slightly warmer temperatures across southern Oklahoma. Some areas could even reach the 60s along the Red River Valley by later tonight, depending on cloud cover and early morning drizzle.
"Please use caution if driving this morning within the Winter Weather Advisory," officials have warned, emphasizing the icy conditions. Temperatures are expected to gradually warm above freezing by early afternoon, which should lead to any freezing drizzle changing over to plain rain.
By Wednesday afternoon, blustery conditions can be expected, as winds return from the south with speeds likely increasing to 15 to 25 mph. This will create relatively chillier weather for most of northern Oklahoma, keeping temperatures primarily within the 40s. Meanwhile, the southern parts of the state are forecasted to enjoy temperatures approaching the 60s, though gusty winds will persist and contribute to blustery weather.
The impending weather shift will be followed by another cold front expected Thursday morning, which will drop temperatures back down again across northern sections of the state. While daytime highs for Thursday are projected to reach at least the 60s, parts of southern Oklahoma could see lower 70s if warmer air prevails before the arrival of the cold air mass. Friday and Saturday are expected to bring slight warming trends, with temperatures likely settling around the upper 60s to lower 70s before colder weather moves back in.
Local meteorologists indicate uncertainty around the forecast as another significant cold front approaches by mid-week next week. "We’ll continue to monitor the forecast and keep probabilities for wintry weather Monday night to Tuesday relatively low,” one meteorologist noted. Nevertheless, should the weather patterns develop as forecasted, they believe there could be chances for wintry precipitation, with potential conditions leading to rain-to-wintry mix including some snow.
During this cold period, the city of Tulsa along with local shelters and outreach teams are working diligently to provide safe, warm spaces for residents. Temporary overflow shelters are operational, and locations for warming stations are available for those seeking refuge from the severe weather.
The Tulsa Health Department is also urging residents to take precautionary health measures, recommending flu and COVID-19 vaccinations as residents enter the coldest months of the year. Complications can arise during winter conditions, particularly for vulnerable populations such as pets or the elderly. Residents are urged to remain vigilant about their health amid the fluctuated winter weather.
For up-to-date reports and localized weather forecasts, individuals can access resources such as outage maps from local power companies and electric cooperatives, alongside weather podcasts provided by local meteorologists. Staying informed through reliable channels encourages community safety during the winter season.
Monitor daily forecasts closely as Oklahoma continues to navigate through this period of winter weather uncertainty, ensuring proper precautions and safety measures are observed.