With temperatures expected to drop sharply on Friday, January 23, 2026, due to an arctic blast, Oklahomans are being urged to take precautions to protect their homes and families. The National Weather Service warns that wind chills could reach dangerously low levels across the state.

Key Safety Tips

Experts recommend the following steps to prepare your home:

• Insulate Exposed Pipes: Use foam pipe insulation or wrap pipes with towels to prevent freezing. Focus on areas such as basements, attics, and garages.
• Let Faucets Drip: Allow cold water to drip from faucets, particularly those connected to exposed pipes, to prevent freezing.
• Seal Drafts: Inspect windows and doors for drafts and seal them with weather stripping or caulk.
• Maintain Heating: Set your thermostat to at least 68°F, even when you're away from home, to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Check Smoke Alarms: Ensure that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functional, particularly if using space heaters or fireplaces.
• Prepare Emergency Supplies: Stock up on flashlights, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable food in case of power outages.
• Have a Backup Heat Source: Consider safe alternatives such as a kerosene heater or wood-burning stove, but use them according to manufacturer instructions.
• Protect Pets: Bring pets indoors and provide adequate shelter for livestock.

These measures aim to mitigate the risks associated with extreme cold, including burst pipes, heating system failures, and safety hazards from alternative heat sources.

Community Resources

Several organizations across Oklahoma are stepping up to assist residents:

• City of Tulsa: Emergency shelters are open at John 3:16 Mission, 506 N. Cheyenne Ave, Tulsa, and Salvation Army Center of Hope, 102 N. Denver Ave, Tulsa.
• Oklahoma City: Warming centers have been established at Will Rogers Senior Center, 3501 Pat Murphy Dr, OKC, and Homeless Alliance Day Shelter, 1724 NW 4th St, OKC.
• Norman: The Norman Public Library East, 3051 Alameda St, Norman, will serve as a warming center during library hours.
• Stillwater: The Stillwater Community Center, 315 W. 8th Ave, Stillwater, is accepting residents needing shelter.

Residents are encouraged to contact these locations directly for hours and availability.

What Officials Are Saying

Governor Kevin Stitt issued a statement urging all Oklahomans to remain vigilant. "This arctic blast poses significant risks, and I urge all residents to take the necessary precautions to stay safe. Check on your neighbors, especially the elderly, and make use of community resources," he said.

The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security also issued guidelines, emphasizing the importance of having an emergency kit and staying informed through local weather updates.

What Happens Next

The arctic blast is expected to last through the weekend, with temperatures beginning to moderate by Monday, January 26, 2026. However, road conditions may remain hazardous due to potential ice accumulation. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol advises against unnecessary travel, particularly in rural areas.

Utility companies such as OG&E and PSO have stated that they are prepared for potential power outages but encourage residents to report outages promptly.