Cold weather returns to state

Staff and Wire Reports

Winter may be officially over, but cold weather is still making its presence felt across Oklahoma.

The National Weather Service has issued a freeze warning for 15 counties in northern sections of the state and a freeze watch for 37 counties in western, central and southern Oklahoma for Sunday. Temperatures were forecast to dip into the 30s statewide Sunday night.

A cold, dry Canadian high pressure system, currently over the Hudson Bay in north-central Canada, will begin a southward track into the U.S. on Sunday night. The clear skies, calm wind, and dry air will pave the way for freezing temperatures across the majority of the state Sunday morning and Monday morning. Areas near and along the Red River Valley may come away with just patchy frost, while areas along and north of Interstate 40 can expect a prolonged period of freezing temperatures Monday morning.

Temperatures this cold could damage newly planted vegetation. Take some basic precautions such as bringing your potted plants indoors, or covering outdoor vegetation with newspaper or straw.

Temperature will climb to the 50s and 60s on Sunday and Monday. Stay with NEWS 9, we'll keep you advised.