Winter Storm Warnings in Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa sits in a part of Oklahoma where winter weather is real but rarely extreme. Analyzing local snowfall records across 13 years (2012–2024), the city averages just 5.7 inches (14.6 cm) of snow per year. That modest total tends to be concentrated in three months: February, January, and December, in that order. Heavy snow events — generally defined as days producing 4 inches or more within 24 hours — have averaged out to essentially zero occurrences per year over that period, reflecting how infrequently Tulsa sees truly significant accumulation.
Average winter overnight lows hover right at the freezing mark, around 32.4 °F (0.2 °C), which means precipitation often falls as a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain rather than pure snow. That wintry mix can be deceptively dangerous on roads and sidewalks even when snowfall totals look small.
When the National Weather Service issues a winter storm warning for the Tulsa area, it signals that hazardous winter conditions are expected to be severe enough to disrupt travel and daily life. It's important to understand that warning thresholds are not uniform — the criteria used in Tulsa differ from those applied in northern states where heavy snow is far more common. A warning here carries serious weight precisely because the region is less equipped to handle significant winter precipitation when it does arrive.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 5.7 in (14.6 cm) |
| Snowiest months | February, January, December |
| Avg. winter overnight low | 32.4°F (0.2°C) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 0 |
Climatology figures are approximate estimates for the period shown and may differ from official local records.
Watch vs warning: a winter storm watch means a major storm is possible in Tulsa within 12–48 hours (be prepared); a winter storm warning means it is happening or about to (take action now). For full definitions, see the complete winter storm warning guide.
Tulsa winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Tulsa right now?
The live status at the top of this page shows whether a winter storm warning, watch, or advisory is currently in effect for Tulsa, Oklahoma. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Tulsa get winter storm warnings often?
Tulsa sees only occasional snow, so winter storm warnings are infrequent, though disruptive snow and ice events do occur. The frequency varies year to year with the track of major storm systems.
How much snow triggers a winter storm warning in Tulsa?
There is no single national trigger: warning criteria are set by each local National Weather Service office, ranging from a couple of inches of snow in areas where snow is rare up to 6 inches or more in snow-belt regions, and significant ice accumulation can warrant a warning on its own. In a lower-snow area like Tulsa, warnings can be issued for amounts snowier regions would shrug off.
What should I do during a winter storm warning in Tulsa?
Avoid travel if possible, stay indoors and keep warm, prepare for power outages, keep an emergency kit, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Follow guidance from Oklahoma authorities and the National Weather Service (NWS).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in Oklahoma City, OK
- Winter storm warning in Norman, OK
- Winter storm warning in Fayetteville, AR
- Winter storm warning in Wichita, KS
- Winter storm warning in Springfield, MO
- Winter storm warning in Topeka, KS
See all locations, read the latest winter weather news, or the full winter storm warning guide. Definitions follow the National Weather Service (NWS) criteria; thresholds vary by region.