Bitter cold grips Oklahoma: wind chills below zero and light snow ahead

Arctic air has settled across Oklahoma, bringing dangerously cold wind chills and sub-freezing temperatures. Wind chills as low as -10 degrees are expected in some areas, particularly in the Panhandle.

What to expect: What to Expect Today

1. Morning wind chills: Near or below zero across the state.
2. Afternoon highs: Upper 20s to low 30s, with wind chills in the teens and 20s.
3. Tonight: Lows in the teens, with lighter winds making conditions slightly more bearable.

Monday Brings Snow Chances

1. Light Snow Potential: Snow chances begin early in northwest Oklahoma and spread to central areas by Monday afternoon.
2. Expected Accumulations:
3. Central Oklahoma: Up to ½ inch.
4. Northwest Oklahoma: 1 to 3 inches, with snow-covered roads likely.
5. Road Impacts: Slick spots possible in central Oklahoma, particularly through Tuesday morning.

Meteorologist Andrew Adams noted, "This should be a light, fluffy type of snow—not the wet, heavy snow we saw the other week."

Frigid Wind Chills Persist

1. Tuesday Morning: Wind chills near or below zero; coldest morning of the week.
2. Tuesday Afternoon: Wind chills in the low 20s to teens.

Adams added, "Wind chills will be the biggest factor the next few days, especially in the mornings."

Weather Blog: Siberian Surge

The Siberian surge means a few days of bitter cold wind chills, especially in the mornings. Be prepared for single-digit lows and the potential for frozen pipes – so don’t forget to drip those faucets! And if you're wondering about snowfall, we could see anywhere from a dusting to an inch, especially in the Panhandle, so it’s worth keeping an eye on the forecast.

Saturday: First Snow Chance Arrives

Temperatures will nosedive into the 20s overnight, with wind chills making it feel even colder. By Saturday, highs will struggle to reach the 30s.

A light snow event is expected, with only minor accumulation—just a dusting to flurries in most areas. Strong north winds will reinforce the chilly conditions.

Sunday: Deep Freeze Sets In

The arctic air will fully take hold, with highs remaining below freezing. Wind chills will make it feel even colder, possibly dipping below zero at times.

Dry conditions are expected, but the frigid temperatures will be the main story.

Monday-Tuesday: Second Snow Chance & Coldest Air

A stronger system will bring another round of snow Monday into early Tuesday. This snow will be dry and powdery due to the extremely cold air mass.

We could see about an inch of snow in the Oklahoma City metro, with slightly higher amounts in northwest Oklahoma. Along with the snow, bitterly cold temperatures and gusty winds could lead to pipe-bursting conditions.

Wednesday-Thursday: Prolonged Cold Lingers

Even after the snow system moves out, temperatures will remain below freezing through midweek. Wind chills will continue to be a factor, and any lingering snow could cause travel issues. There may be a slight warm-up by the end of the week, but expect winter conditions to dominate.

WINTER WEATHER PREP:

1. 3 Ways To Save Money On Energy Bills During The Winter
2. Q&A With OKC Fire Captain On Ways Homeowners Can Prevent, Prepare For Winter Fires
3. OG&E Shares Winter Readiness And Power Outage Tips
4. Space Heater Safety Tips For The Winter Season
5. Tips On How To Beat Seasonal Affective Disorder And The Winter Blues

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