Recalling The February 2021 Storm As Winter Hits Oklahoma Again

The coldest temperatures of the season and chances for ice and snow are on tap for Oklahoma this weekend. Anytime a big winter storm is in the forecast, Oklahoma residents catch their breath as they're reminded of the infamous winter storm of 2021.

Its almost been five years since Oklahoma saw once of the state's most significant winter storms. From Feb. 11-20, 2021, Oklahoma experienced one of the worst winter storms to ever impact the state. Oklahoma residents experienced 10 days arctic temperatures with multiple rounds of snow and ice.

Now that local meteorologists are sounding the alarms for a big winter storm this weekend, Oklahoma residents are worried that they could see another historic storm like in 2021.

Oklahoma residents spent several days without power or water during the 2021 arctic outbreak.

One of the main reasons Oklahoma residents are fearful of another winter storm like 2021 is because residents spent days and weeks without power and water. The arctic outbreak took a toll on Oklahoma's power grid and led to rolling blackouts and left some residents without power for days during and after the storm.

The arctic temperatures also caused pipes to burst in homes and on city streets. This caused damage to people's homes and left residents without water for weeks after the storm.

Oklahoma could see snow, ice and arctic temperatures Jan. 23-25.

It's still too early for specifics, but several local meteorologists are urging Oklahoma residents to get ready for a winter storm the weekend of Jan. 23-25. The generalized forecast is that all of Oklahoma could see snow or ice or both. It is guaranteed that temperatures will be well below freezing. Some meteorologists are expecting the coldest temperatures of the season.

Will this weekend's winter storm be like 2021's historic arctic outbreak?

It's too soon to tell how much or how little winter precipitation Oklahoma will see this weekend. Oklahoma weather is always difficult to predict exactly, and winter weather is the hardest. So there's no way to tell yet if Oklahoma is in for another 2021 arctic outbreak.

Regardless, Oklahoma residents will want to consider prepping themselves, their homes and their cars for winter weather. Check out our full lists of winter weather preparedness below.

Oklahoma Cold Weather Checklist

Those first big cold fronts always seem to catch Oklahoma by surprise. In one big swoop, the nearly 100° days turn into sudden freezes overnight. We'll still have warm days here and there throughout winter, but now is as good a time as now to start on your cold weather checklist. Easy small tasks that add up to bother energy savings and comfort in the home. They'll also allow you to avoid the big headaches and repair bills that happen so frequently in our bipolar climate.

Gallery Credit: Kelso

Oklahoma Winter Weather Vehicle Checklist

Whether you're driving across town or across the state, Oklahoma's winter weather has the potential to make your trip an unforgettable experience. While we focus mainly on the summer season conditions--not driving during the heat of the day, road surface temp, etc...--the winter here is just as concerning. Here's a quick rundown on the stuff you should check before braving the frigid cold in the Sooner State.

Gallery Credit: Kelso