Oklahoma has experienced some of its coldest temperatures in recent years, with a particularly frigid morning marking a significant late-February cold snap. According to State Climatologist Gary McManus, this event is one of the most severe late-February outbreaks of frigid air the state has seen.
While McManus noted that the “warm” air right after midnight slightly skewed some temperature readings, numerous records were still broken. The state saw record lows and, if predicted high temperatures materialize, could potentially set a new all-time lowest high temperature for February 19th. The current record of 15 degrees, set in 2006, is in jeopardy.
While this cold snap is undeniably significant, it’s being compared to other historical cold events in Oklahoma. McManus pointed out that the February 2021 deep freeze remains a benchmark event for mid- to late-February cold air outbreaks. Other notable cold periods, like the February 2003 and the early March 2014 Siberian blast, also serve as reminders of Oklahoma’s susceptibility to extreme temperature swings.
Despite the current chill, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. McManus predicts a warming trend for the weekend, with temperatures expected to climb back above normal by early next week. Until then, Oklahomans are advised to continue to take precautions against the cold.
To read more from State Climatologist Gary McManus on his Mesonet ticker, click here.
