OKC road conditions: Advice from metro first responders

Monday’s sudden arctic storm caught many drivers off guard as snow hit the Oklahoma City area Tuesday morning. Emergency crews have been responding to crashes and related incidents across the state, placing a heavy burden on local police and fire departments.

News 9 spoke with Scott Douglas, Public Information Officer at the Oklahoma City Fire Department, about road conditions. He urged drivers to be prepared before hitting the road.

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Q: When did conditions deteriorate?

A: The storm was forecast to arrive at approximately 4 a.m. and began as a blanket of rain. However, at about 7:30 a.m., the precipitation on the roads froze, creating dangerous conditions that led to numerous crashes Tuesday morning. Drivers were unprepared for the sudden shift, and Douglas said emergency calls from drivers quickly began to accumulate after 8 a.m.

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Q: Where are the crashes occurring?

A: While service vehicles are working to clear major roadways and thoroughfares, the most common areas for crashes have been side roads and off-ramps leading to interstates. Douglas warns that conditions on major roads may not reflect those on side streets and urges drivers to reduce speed when transitioning onto smaller roads.

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Q: What should I do to prepare for driving in winter weather?

A: Douglas recommends that drivers be prepared for any emergency that could leave them stranded in extreme weather. He suggests keeping extra blankets, warm clothing, flashlights, and at least a gallon of water in the vehicle. Many drivers this morning were found to be wearing insufficient protective clothing, and exposure to the cold is a major concern for first responders.

Oklahoma City government has an interactive response and accident tracker available on its website for drivers to reference before heading out.