WINTER WEATHER: Highway Conditions Alert 2-24-22 as of 11 a.m.

Oklahoma Department of Transportation and Oklahoma Turnpike Authority crews continue to treat slick and hazardous conditions in Southwestern, Southern, Southeastern, East-Central and Northeastern Oklahoma. Roadways are reported to be slick in spots in Central, North-Central, and Western Oklahoma.

Light winter precipitation continues in much of the state with heavier thunderstorms moving through the eastern and southeastern portions of Oklahoma. Light snow has started falling in Northwestern Oklahoma and crews are prepared to begin treatments as warranted.

The driving lanes of highways and turnpikes in the Oklahoma City metro area are partially clear, with ramps remaining covered with slick spots throughout. Tulsa metro area highways have at least one clear lane in each direction with adjacent lanes and ramps still sleet covered.

I-35 is slick in spots with mild accumulations of packed sleet in Northern Oklahoma and remains slick and hazardous in much of Central and Southern Oklahoma. I-40 is considered slick and hazardous in central and eastern parts of the state. The US-69 corridor is slick and hazardous through most of Eastern Oklahoma.

Turnpikes statewide are mostly clear; however, motorists should continue to use caution when traveling as some lanes, ramps and shoulders are slick in spots.

Drivers should continue to use extreme caution through the afternoon and into the evening as continuing light precipitation can create slick spots. It will take time to clear accumulated ice due to very low temperatures and additional precipitation. ODOT and OTA crews will continue plowing and salt/sand operations in all affected counties and on all affected turnpikes.

REMEMBER during snowy and icy conditions, motorists are asked to:

• Stay about 200 feet behind road clearing equipment; crews need room to maneuver and can engage plowing or spreading materials without notice.
• Allow extra space between vehicles to provide adequate distance for braking.
• Be aware of “black ice,” which looks wet on the roadway but is a thin layer of ice.
• Be patient, plan trips ahead and allow extra time in reaching destinations.
• Motorists should closely follow the forecast and check current road conditions on the interactive travel map at www.okroads.org or the free mobile app Drive Oklahoma.