OKC Morning Briefing: Sunny Thaws, New Travel Fees, and a Sunday Tribute to Teachers

A Bright Sunday Thaw After the Storm

Oklahoma City wakes up to a crisp and clear Sunday, signaling a welcome shift in the weather. After grappling with the lingering effects of Winter Storm Fern, which brought historic snowfall to the region late last month, the city is finally seeing a sustained warming trend. While the morning started with temperatures in the low 20s, the mercury is expected to climb to a comfortable 52 degrees by this afternoon. The mood across the metro is one of quiet resilience and relief as residents clear the last of the ice and head out to enjoy a rare sunny February weekend.

The $45 Flight Factor: TSA Changes Start Today

The most critical talking point for Oklahoma City residents today is at Will Rogers World Airport. Starting today, February 1, 2026, air travelers who have not yet obtained a state-issued REAL ID-compliant license or a valid U.S. Passport will face a new hurdle. Under the new TSA ConfirmID program, passengers without acceptable identification must pay a $45 fee to establish their identity at the checkpoint. This fee covers a 10-day travel period, but TSA officials warn that the verification process can cause significant delays. Travelers are encouraged to arrive early and, if possible, pay the fee online before reaching the airport to minimize wait times.

Sunday Highlights: Garden Dreams and Blue Hoops

If you are looking for local activities, today offers several ways to enjoy the thaw:

• The Home + Garden Show: Today is the final day of the Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show at the OKC Fairgrounds. It is the perfect time to start planning spring projects as the Bennett Event Center hosts hundreds of experts.
• OKC Blue Basketball: Catch the Oklahoma City Blue as they take on the Rio Grande Valley Vipers at the Paycom Center. Tip-off is at 2:00 PM.
• Last Call for Ice Skating: It is the final day of the season for the Devon Ice Rink at Myriad Botanical Gardens. If you want one last glide on the ice before the season ends tonight, today is your chance.
• Thunder on the Road: The OKC Thunder travel to Denver to face the Nuggets at 7:30 PM tonight, a high-stakes matchup as the Thunder fight to maintain their top spot in the Western Conference.

A Feel-Good Tribute to Our Educators

In a wonderful gesture of community support, the Home + Garden Show has designated today as 'Teacher Day.' All educators with a valid faculty ID will receive complimentary admission to the show today. Additionally, any resident who brings a church bulletin from today’s services to the box office can receive two free adult tickets. These initiatives offer a great way for neighbors to reconnect and for the city to say thank you to the teachers who have worked tirelessly through the recent winter disruptions.