Winter Storm Causes Power Outages in Oklahoma's Southeast
A winter storm hit Oklahoma on Friday night, bringing snow and ice to the state. As of Saturday morning, power outages are concentrated in the southeast region, affecting multiple counties. Here's a breakdown of the situation and what residents need to know.
Impact by County:
- McCurtain County: 1,509 customers were without power as of 9:30 a.m., primarily served by Choctaw Electric Co-Op.
- Carter County, Choctaw County, Oklahoma County, and Love County: These counties also reported power outages on Saturday.
Total Affected Customers:
Across the state, a total of 2,123 customers are currently without power.
Weather Forecast:
News On 6 Meteorologists predict a second wave of snow will move through Oklahoma on Saturday night and into Sunday morning, potentially exacerbating the power outage situation.
Response and Safety Measures:
Governor Kevin Stitt assured residents that utility crews are prepared and working to restore power as quickly as possible. He also mentioned that three people were rescued after becoming trapped in their vehicles during the storm. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol and National Guard are assisting with rescue efforts.
Heating Safety:
EMSA officials emphasize the importance of using heating sources only as instructed by the manufacturer. They strongly advise against using gas appliances, grills, or other unsafe methods to heat homes.
About the Author:
Carrie Winchel, Griffin Media’s Statewide Director of Digital Content, is a seasoned journalist with nearly two decades of experience in television news, both broadcast and digital. She is dedicated to delivering in-depth and informative news coverage that resonates with the people of Oklahoma.
