The Calm Before the Storm: Sunshine Precedes a Major Winter Surge for Oklahoma City

Today's Weather Outlook

Oklahoma City residents are waking up to a deceptive bit of winter sunshine this Wednesday, January 21, 2026. While the morning rays offer a brief respite from the biting January air, local meteorologists and the National Weather Service are urging the public to use this window of relatively calm weather to prepare for a major winter event looming on the horizon. Today serves as the 'mild' peak of the week before a massive arctic surge brings hazardous conditions to the region.

Daily Timeline and Temperature Ranges

The day began with mostly clear skies and temperatures hovering in the high 20s. By mid-morning, the mercury climbed to approximately 37°F, though a persistent southerly breeze has kept the 'feels like' temperature closer to 31°F. Humidity is currently measured at 75%, making for a crisp and cold start to the workday.

• Morning: Mostly sunny with temperatures rising steadily through the 30s. Winds are currently out of the south at 10 mph.
• Afternoon: Expect a high of approximately 39°F to 41°F. Sunlight will begin to fade by mid-afternoon as cloud cover increases. Winds will strengthen, gusting up to 30 mph.
• Evening: Clouds will thicken significantly after sunset. There is a 10% chance of stray snow flurries or light rain showers late tonight as a weakening system moves through the area. Temperatures will dip back toward a low of 24°F.

Wind and Precipitation Warnings

While today’s precipitation is expected to be minimal, the wind is a factor to watch. South winds will increase to 15-20 mph by late afternoon, with gusts potentially exceeding 30 mph. These winds are the first sign of a significant atmospheric shift that will draw moisture from the Gulf, setting the stage for the weekend's high-impact storm.

Urgent: Weekend Winter Storm Watch

The National Weather Service in Norman has issued a Winter Storm Watch for Oklahoma City and the surrounding metro area, effective from Friday afternoon through early Sunday morning. This system is part of a massive 2,000-mile weather front that threatens to engulf the central United States. Forecasts for the OKC area currently include:

• Total snow accumulations of 6 inches or more are likely across central Oklahoma.
• A glaze of ice up to two-tenths of an inch is possible, which could cripple local power lines and travel.
• An Extreme Cold Watch has also been discussed, with wind chills projected to drop as low as -16°F by Saturday night.

Emergency officials recommend that residents use the remaining clear weather today to winterize homes, protect outdoor pipes, and stock up on essential supplies. Travel is expected to become very difficult starting Friday afternoon.