Winter Storm — Garfield, Oklahoma

2010-03-20 · Garfield, Oklahoma

Event narrative

Three to four inches of snow accumulated across the county. Numerous wind gusts of 35 to 40 mph reduced visibilities well below one mile at times. Several accidents occurred due to the poor road conditions. Unfortunately, one accident claimed the life of a child traveling on I-35 near mile marker 150.

Wider weather episode

A strengthening upper level storm system moved east-southeastward from northeast New Mexico to near the Red River and the Arklatex. At the same time, a strong late season cold front moved south across Oklahoma, dramatically dropping temperatures to near or below freezing over a large part of the state. The track of the storm system took a near optimal route for heavy snowfall for areas north of Interstate 40. Rain that formed behind the front quickly changed to a wintry mix, and then to all snow by early morning. The heaviest snow occurred over north-central into parts of eastern Oklahoma, where at least four to seven inches occurred. Widespread amounts of three to five inches fell from western into central Oklahoma, including much of the Oklahoma City metro area. A dry slot wrapped around into the system, which limited snowfall totals over parts of central and southern Oklahoma, but a few inches still accumulated. The snowfall was accompanied by fairly strong winds, with gusts over 40 mph. The blowing snow created drifts that were several feet deep, and travel was impacted with reduced visibilities. Although several automobile accidents occurred as a result of the slushy roads and poor visibilities, no serious injuries occurred.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 216243. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.