As snow, ice, and freezing temperatures are expected to impact communities statewide, the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety (DPS), Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA), Department of Transportation (ODOT), Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM), and the Oklahoma National Guard (OKNG) are actively mobilizing resources to protect public safety and maintain essential services.

“As more winter weather heads our way, Oklahomans can rest assured that their state is ready,” said Governor Stitt. “I’m grateful to our Highway Patrol, road treatment crews, emergency management teams, National Guard, local first responders, and many others who will work around the clock this week to keep Oklahomans safe. Stay safe and stay warm, Oklahoma!”

State Emergency Operations Center Coordination

The State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has been activated at Level 3 for increased readiness. The State EOC is in contact with local emergency managers, state and federal partners, and voluntary agencies to coordinate resource requests as conditions evolve. OEM has boosted staffing levels to support the activation, including staff stationed in northeast Oklahoma should support be needed or requested.

Stranded Motorist Recovery Teams

The Governor has authorized the deployment of Oklahoma National Guard to join Stranded Motorist Recovery Teams in north and northeastern Oklahoma. Three teams, operating under the direction of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, consist of approximately 10 Guardsmen each, utilizing Humvees, wreckers, and Light Medium Tactical Vehicles. These teams are based out of Vinita, Chouteau, and Perry, with a fourth team on standby. OKNG will collaborate with local first responders to aid stranded motorists and assist residents in the hardest hit areas.

Road Clearing, Treatment, and Maintenance

ODOT crews have started pre-treating efforts across the state, focusing on applying materials to roads expected to see the highest impact in north and northeastern regions. Crews statewide will continue to monitor the approaching weather system and will address slick spots on roads and overpasses across Oklahoma as the storm progresses.

Oklahoma Turnpike Authority crews began pre-treating turnpikes, bridges and overpasses Sunday. Pre-treatment work continues today, particularly in the Northeastern portion of the state where the heaviest precipitation is expected.

Both ODOT and OTA crews are closely monitoring weather as it approaches the state and will work around the clock and remain deployed until road conditions are clear. The agencies have plenty of salt, sand and magnesium chloride stocked across the state to treat snowy and icy conditions through the duration of this winter weather event.

Public Safety Reminders and Safety Tips for Motorists

Drivers are urged to avoid unnecessary travel. If travel is unavoidable, exercise extreme caution on roadways as conditions can change rapidly. Drivers are encouraged to use the following safety tips and resources.

For Drivers:

• Equip your vehicle with emergency supplies such as blankets, water, a flashlight and mobile phone charger.
• Stay at least 200 feet behind road-clearing equipment and avoid passing; crews need room to operate safely.
• Make sure everyone in the vehicle is buckled up.
• Allow extra space between vehicles to ensure safe braking distances.
• Watch for black ice, which can appear as wet spots on the road but is a thin layer of ice.
• Plan trips ahead, be patient, and allow extra time to reach your destination.

Additional Recommendations and Resources:

• Check on friends, family, and neighbors, especially the elderly, disabled, or those living alone.
• Monitor weather updates through trusted sources, including local news.
• View live road conditions?here?or look for road conditions on the?Drive Oklahoma mobile app.

Social Media Feeds for Further Updates:

• Oklahoma National Guard
• Department of Emergency Management
• Oklahoma Department of Transportation
• Oklahoma Highway Patrol/DPS