Significant Winter Storm Brings Record Cold and Widespread Snow to Oklahoma: State Climatologist Gary McManus has reported that a major winter storm system moved through Oklahoma over the weekend, blanketing nearly the entire state in 4 to 12 inches of snow and ice. The system brought both significant precipitation and historic low temperatures.
Record-Breaking Temperatures The storm was accompanied by extreme cold, aided by the widespread snowpack. On the morning of January 26, Kenton, Oklahoma, recorded a low of -12°F. This reading set a new state record for the lowest temperature ever recorded on this date, surpassing the previous record of -8°F set in El Reno (and Fort Reno) in 1902 and Meeker in 1894.
Forecasts suggest that January 26 may also break records for the “lowest maximum temperature,” indicating that daytime highs will struggle to rise significantly.
Snow and Ice Accumulation While the system did not break most total “snowstorm” records, it was consistent enough to shatter daily snowfall records over three consecutive days.
Significant ice accumulation was also noted, with Poteau recording 5 inches of sleet, creating difficult conditions for removal and travel.
Forecast and Outlook: Recovery from the deep freeze will be slow. Temperatures are expected to remain below freezing for the majority of the state until Tuesday or Wednesday, delaying any significant melting.
Looking ahead, the respite may be brief. Another Arctic front is forecast to arrive next weekend, bringing a return to winter conditions.
To Read more from State Climatologist Gary McManus on his mesonet ticker, click here:
