If you’re in the Texas Panhandle or Oklahoma, it’s a good day to stay indoors if you can. Snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures are creating hazardous travel conditions this morning, and things won’t start improving until at least noon today (Tuesday, February 18, 2025).
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory and an Extreme Cold Warning, with wind chills dropping as low as -30°F (-34°C) in some areas. That’s cold enough to cause frostbite in less than 30 minutes! If you have to be outside, bundle up and be careful.
What’s Happening Right Now?
Right now, it’s freezing, snowing in some areas, and roads are getting slick. Here’s how things are looking across the region:
- Amarillo, TX – 10°F (-12°C), mostly cloudy
- Oklahoma City, OK – 19°F (-7°C), cloudy with snow and sleet
- Lubbock, TX – 12°F (-11°C), overcast with strong winds
- Woodward, OK – 15°F (-9°C), light snow and windy
Snow has already fallen in some areas overnight, and temperatures are so cold that any moisture on the roads is turning to ice. This means black ice is a major threat, especially on bridges and overpasses.
What to Expect for the Rest of the Day
Tuesday (Feb. 18 – Today)
- Morning: Light snow and flurries continue in parts of northwest Oklahoma and the Texas Panhandle. Some areas could pick up another inch of snow, but the bigger problem is ice and freezing cold temperatures.
- Afternoon: The snow starts to taper off, but don’t expect things to warm up. Temperatures will stay dangerously low, and icy roads will remain a major issue.
- Evening: The deep freeze continues, with temps dropping below zero in some places.
Wednesday (Feb. 19 – Tomorrow)
- Morning: Extreme cold sticks around, with wind chills near -20°F to -30°F in some areas. Expect a freezing cold morning commute with lingering ice on the roads.
- Afternoon: Skies clear up a bit, but it will still be well below freezing, meaning any melted snow will refreeze overnight into Thursday.
How Much Snow Are We Getting?
This isn’t a huge snowstorm, but even a little snow and ice can cause major problems. Here’s what to expect:
- Amarillo, TX: 1-2 inches of snow, with roads staying icy all day.
- Oklahoma City, OK: 2-4 cm of snow, mixed with sleet and freezing rain, making travel hazardous.
- Lubbock, TX: Light snow, but strong winds could blow snow across roads, reducing visibility.
- Woodward, OK: Up to 1 inch of snow, with wind chills near -20°F (-29°C).
Even though the snow totals aren’t huge, ice and extreme cold will be the real dangers.
What’s the Biggest Concern?
Dangerous Roads – Snow and ice are making roads slick and hazardous. Bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads will freeze first.
Extreme Cold – Wind chills as low as -30°F mean frostbite can happen in minutes if skin is exposed.
Possible Power Outages – Ice and high energy use could put a strain on the power grid.
Pets & Livestock at Risk – Bring pets inside, and make sure livestock have shelter, food, and unfrozen water.
Weather Alerts You Need to Know
Winter Weather Advisory – In effect until noon today for northwest Oklahoma and the Texas Panhandle. Expect slippery roads, snow, and freezing rain to make travel difficult.
Extreme Cold Warning – Wind chills as low as -30°F mean it’s dangerous to be outside for long periods.
Black Ice Risk – Any melted snow will refreeze overnight, making for a slick morning commute on Wednesday.
How to Stay Safe in This Winter Weather
Stay off the roads if possible – If you don’t have to drive, don’t. If you do, drive slowly and keep an emergency kit in your car.
Limit time outdoors – Frostbite can happen in less than 30 minutes in this cold. Wear layers, cover your skin, and don’t forget gloves and a hat.
Prepare for power outages – Charge your phones, flashlights, and backup batteries now. Never use generators or grills indoors!
Check on family and neighbors – Elderly and vulnerable individuals may need help staying warm. A quick call or visit can make a big difference.
Keep pets indoors – If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them. Make sure outdoor animals have proper shelter and unfrozen water.
This storm isn’t about huge amounts of snow—it’s about dangerous cold, icy roads, and travel hazards that could catch people off guard.
