Full Breakdown
Oklahoma City Faces Severe Winter Storm: Impacts and Preparations
1/25/2026, 2:53:40 AM
Overview of the Winter Storm
Oklahoma City is currently experiencing a severe winter storm, which began on January 23, 2026, and is expected to bring significant snowfall, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures. The storm is part of a larger weather system affecting several southern states, including Texas and the Carolinas. As temperatures remain in the single digits, hazardous travel conditions are anticipated throughout the region.
Impact on Transportation and Travel
As of January 24, 2026, approximately 93% of flights scheduled to depart from Oklahoma City Will Rogers International Airport have been canceled due to the storm. Local meteorologists reported that while some areas received snow, the actual accumulation was less than initially predicted due to a dry layer of air that caused some snow to evaporate before reaching the ground. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) has advised residents to avoid travel unless necessary, as many roads remain icy and snow-covered.
City Preparations and Response
Oklahoma City officials have been proactive in their response to the storm. Crews began pre-treating roads with a salt brine mixture, which includes beet juice to enhance effectiveness in colder temperatures. This preparation is intended to prevent ice from bonding to the pavement, particularly on bridges and overpasses. The city has deployed 34 snow plows and is prepared to operate around the clock until roads are cleared.
Michael Colbert, Unit Operations Supervisor for the OKC Public Works Street and Drainage Maintenance Division, emphasized the importance of keeping roads clear: “Once we start, we will not stop until the roads are cleared.” Residents are urged to give snowplow operators ample space to work safely.
Official Statements and Community Safety
Governor Kevin Stitt has urged Oklahomans to limit travel and check on neighbors during this severe weather event. He noted that while state highways remain open, conditions can change rapidly, and even treated roads can become hazardous. Stitt also highlighted the potential for power outages due to vehicles sliding into power poles, emphasizing the need for caution.
OG&E, the local utility provider, has staged over 900 employees for storm response, focusing on areas most likely to experience outages. Residents are encouraged to prepare emergency kits and check on vulnerable community members.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the extensive preparations, some residents have expressed concerns about the effectiveness of the city’s response, particularly regarding the speed of snow removal and communication about road conditions. Local meteorologists have also pointed out discrepancies in snowfall predictions, leading to confusion and frustration among the public.
What's Next
As the storm continues, city officials expect to remain active in clearing roads and addressing the impacts of the winter weather well into the following week. Residents are advised to stay informed through local news and weather updates, and to utilize resources like the DriveOK app for real-time road conditions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “First thing, if you don’t have to get out, please don’t,” — Marc Holland, OKC Public Works Unit Operations Supervisor
- “Even treated roads can become hazardous,” — Governor Kevin Stitt
- “We’ll go 24 hours around the clock until the storm is over, get streets clear.” — Michael Colbert, OKC Public Works Unit Operations Supervisor
- “Cars will slide off the road and into poles, and that then causes outages for thousands of people,” — Sheradee Hearst, OG&E Public Relations Manager
