Full Breakdown
Oklahoma City Faces Severe Winter Storm: Impacts and Preparations
1/24/2026, 10:27:35 PM
Overview of the Winter Storm
A severe winter storm, designated as Winter Storm Fern, has significantly impacted Oklahoma City and surrounding areas, bringing heavy snowfall, ice, and dangerously low temperatures. The storm began on January 23, 2026, and is expected to continue affecting the region through the weekend, with temperatures remaining in the single digits.
Preparations and Response Efforts
Oklahoma City officials have been proactive in their response to the storm. Street crews began pre-treating roads, particularly bridges and overpasses, with a salt brine mixture that includes 5% beet juice to prevent ice from bonding to the pavement. This preparation was aimed at giving crews a head start once the storm commenced. According to Marc Holland, Unit Operations Supervisor for the City of Oklahoma City, this approach allows for more efficient snow removal once precipitation begins.
The city has deployed 34 snow plows and approximately 75 personnel per shift to clear about 1,800 miles of designated snow routes. Officials have urged residents to stay off the roads to facilitate snow removal operations and ensure safety.
Impact on Transportation
The storm has severely disrupted air travel, with reports indicating that up to 93% of flights at Oklahoma City’s Will Rogers International Airport were canceled on January 24. While some flights are expected to resume on January 25, many travelers remain affected by the cancellations.
Road conditions have also deteriorated, with hazardous ice and snow covering many highways and streets. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) has provided live updates on road conditions and closures, advising residents to check these resources before traveling.
Official Statements and Safety Messaging
City officials have emphasized the importance of safety during this winter weather event. Michael Colbert, Unit Operations Supervisor for the OKC Public Works Street and Drainage Maintenance Division, stated, “My best advice to our citizens: Stay at home. If you have to get out there, use caution. Safety first. Slow down. Take your time.”
OG&E, the local utility provider, has also prepared for potential power outages due to the storm, with over 900 employees ready to respond to any issues, particularly those caused by vehicles crashing into power poles.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the extensive preparations, some residents have expressed concerns regarding the effectiveness of the city's response, particularly in relation to the accuracy of snowfall predictions. Meteorologist Mike Collier noted that a dry layer of air caused some of the predicted snow to evaporate before reaching the ground, leading to discrepancies between forecasts and actual conditions.
What's Next
As the storm continues, city crews will remain active in clearing roads and addressing impacts well into the following week. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news and weather updates, and to prepare for ongoing cold temperatures that may hinder melting snow and ice.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If it comes in as a freezing rain event, it’s going to help us keep from getting that binding between the snow and ice,” — Marc Holland, Unit Operations Supervisor, City of Oklahoma City
- “Please give the snow plow and brine truck operators plenty of room,” — Michael Colbert, Unit Operations Supervisor, OKC Public Works
- “My best advice to our citizens: Stay at home,” — Michael Colbert, Unit Operations Supervisor, OKC Public Works
- “Cars will slide off the road and into poles, and that then causes outages for thousands of people,” — Sheradee Hearst, Public Relations Manager, OG&E
This winter storm has posed significant challenges for Oklahoma City, prompting extensive preparations and ongoing safety messaging as the community navigates the impacts of severe winter weather.
