Oklahoma City is gearing up for a bitterly cold week as an arctic front brings freezing temperatures and dangerously strong winds. A Wind Advisory is in effect until 6:00 PM CST today, with gusts up to 45 mph making it feel even colder. Residents are urged to bundle up and take precautions to stay safe during this frigid spell.
What’s Ahead:
- Today (Monday): Clear skies with a high of just 31°F (0°C). Strong northwest winds of 25-35 mph will create wind chills that feel like single digits. Overnight lows will drop to 14°F (-10°C).
- Tuesday-Wednesday: Very cold with daytime highs in the low 30s°F and overnight lows plunging to 12°F (-11°C) Tuesday night. Sunshine returns midweek but won’t warm things up much.
- Thursday-Friday: Cloudy and cold, with highs climbing slightly to the mid-30s°F. Nights will remain icy, with lows in the low to mid-20s°F.
- Weekend Outlook: Temperatures will inch up into the 40s°F by Saturday, but it’ll still feel chilly, especially at night.
Why It’s a Big Deal:
This arctic blast is more than just uncomfortable—it’s potentially dangerous:
- Frostbite Risk: With wind chills dropping to single digits, exposed skin can develop frostbite in as little as 30 minutes.
- Hazardous Winds: Gusts up to 45 mph can make driving difficult and increase the risk of power outages from downed lines.
- Freezing Conditions: Pipes, plants, and pets are all at risk from the freezing overnight lows.
Warnings to Watch:
- Wind Advisory (Until 6:00 PM CST Today):
- What It Means: Strong northwest winds will make outdoor activities dangerous and create challenges for drivers, especially on open roads.
- Impact: Reduced visibility, difficult driving conditions, and wind chills that make the air feel significantly colder.
How to Stay Safe:
- Bundle Up:
- If you must go outside, wear layers, gloves, and a hat. Cover exposed skin to avoid frostbite.
- Limit outdoor time for children, the elderly, and pets.
- Protect Your Home:
- Let faucets drip and open cabinet doors to keep pipes from freezing.
- Check your heating system to ensure it’s working properly, and have backup options like space heaters ready.
- Travel Carefully:
- Avoid unnecessary travel. If you must drive, be cautious of strong crosswinds, especially on bridges or open roads.
- Keep an emergency kit in your car with blankets, snacks, and water in case of delays.
Looking Ahead:
This week’s freezing weather and gusty winds will require extra care. Make sure your home is prepared, dress warmly, and stay off the roads if conditions worsen. Warmer temperatures will arrive this weekend, but for now, it’s all about staying safe and staying warm.
Take care, Oklahoma City, and keep an eye on the forecast!
