Central Oklahoma is preparing for a significant winter storm set to arrive on Friday, January 23, 2026, bringing heavy snow, ice accumulation, and frigid temperatures. The National Weather Service in Norman has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the region, effective from 6:00 a.m. Friday through midnight Saturday.

Key Developments

The storm is expected to bring 4-8 inches of snow across the Oklahoma City metro area, with localized areas potentially seeing up to 10 inches. Ice accumulation of up to 0.25 inches is also possible, particularly in southern portions of central Oklahoma. The heaviest impact is forecast between noon and 6:00 p.m. Friday.

According to meteorologist Lisa Johnson of the National Weather Service, "This storm has the potential to create hazardous travel conditions, power outages, and disruptions to daily activities. We urge residents to prepare now."

Affected Areas

The following areas are under the Winter Storm Warning:

• Oklahoma City, including downtown and surrounding neighborhoods
• Edmond, with significant impact expected near 2nd Street and Broadway
• Norman, particularly areas near Main Street and the University of Oklahoma campus
• Moore, with icy conditions anticipated along Interstate 35
• Yukon, including neighborhoods near Route 66

Rural areas east of Interstate 35, such as Shawnee and Seminole, are also expecting significant snowfall and ice accumulation.

Preparations Underway

City and state officials have already begun preparations to minimize the storm's impact. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) has deployed crews to pre-treat major highways, including Interstates 35, 40, and 44, with brine solution as of Wednesday, January 21. ODOT spokesperson Mark Stevens stated that "crews will continue treatments through Thursday and will monitor conditions closely during the storm."

Local utilities, including OG&E, have positioned extra repair crews on standby in anticipation of potential power outages. City officials in Oklahoma City have announced the opening of warming shelters at the following locations:

• Willard Community Center - 1400 NW 3rd Street, Oklahoma City
• Salvation Army Shelter - 501 SE 15th Street, Oklahoma City
• Edmond Community Center - 28 E Main Street, Edmond

Residents are urged to stock up on essential supplies, including food, water, medicine, and batteries. Emergency kits should also include blankets, flashlights, and a first-aid kit.

What Happens Next

The National Weather Service will provide updated forecasts as the storm approaches. Residents are encouraged to monitor local news and weather alerts for real-time updates. Travel is discouraged during peak storm hours, and those who must drive are advised to carry emergency supplies, such as a shovel, sand, and extra clothing.

Schools across the region, including Oklahoma City Public Schools, Edmond Public Schools, and Norman Public Schools, have already announced potential closures or virtual learning days, depending on the severity of the storm.