Oklahomans are waking up to an icy and dangerous morning, as an Arctic air mass tightens its grip on the state, sending wind chills plunging below zero. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Cold Weather Advisory, warning residents that these bitterly cold conditions will persist through 9 AM Friday.
With actual temperatures in the single digits and strong northern winds, the feels-like temperature in many areas will drop well below zero. Frostbite can develop in as little as 30 minutes if skin is exposed, and hypothermia is a serious risk for anyone unprepared.
How Cold Will It Get?
This cold snap is affecting the entire state, but some regions will feel it worse than others.
- Oklahoma City, OK: Wind chills between -3°F and -5°F overnight
- Tulsa, OK: Feels-like temperatures will drop to -2°F
- Lawton, OK & Surrounding Areas: Wind chills hovering between 0°F and -3°F
While the actual temperature will be between 5°F and 15°F, the strong gusty winds of 15-25 mph will make it feel much colder than what’s on the thermometer.
Why Is This Cold So Dangerous?
This extreme cold isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s a real danger to health, homes, and infrastructure across the state.
- Frostbite & Hypothermia: In these temperatures, exposed skin can freeze in less than 30 minutes. The ears, nose, fingers, and toes are the most vulnerable.
- Frozen & Burst Pipes: Oklahoma homes aren’t built for this level of cold, making burst pipes a major concern for homeowners.
- Dead Car Batteries: If your car won’t start Friday morning, blame the cold. Extreme temperatures weaken car batteries, and many may struggle to start in the morning.
- Heating System Strain: Heating units will be working at full capacity, and some may fail, leaving homes without warmth during the coldest hours of the night.
How to Stay Safe in This Arctic Freeze
With wind chills well below freezing, it’s critical to take precautions to avoid health risks and property damage.
- Dress in Layers: If you must go outside, wear multiple layers, gloves, a hat, and a scarf to cover exposed skin. Limit time outdoors to avoid frostbite.
- Keep Your Pipes From Freezing: Let faucets drip slightly, open cabinet doors under sinks, and insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing.
- Check on Elderly Neighbors & Pets: The elderly, young children, and pets are at the highest risk. Make sure they have access to heat and shelter.
- Be Careful with Space Heaters: If using one, keep it at least three feet away from flammable objects and never leave it unattended.
- Prepare for Possible Power Issues: Charge phones, stock up on extra blankets, and be ready in case heating systems struggle overnight.
How Long Will This Arctic Cold Last?
The worst of the cold will last through Friday morning, but temperatures will remain below freezing through most of the day before warming slightly in the afternoon. However, another blast of cold air could return over the weekend, keeping nighttime temperatures dangerously low for several more days.
Meteorologists are closely monitoring this Arctic outbreak, and updates will be provided as needed. For now, stay indoors, bundle up, and take this cold seriously—this is not typical Oklahoma winter weather, and it can be deadly if you’re not prepared
