0345L-WEDNESDAY OUTLOOK FROM GARFIELD COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT-10/28/2020

1-ICE STORM WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 1PM OR EARLIER DEPENDING ON THE FREEZE LINE THEN A FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT FROM 1PM TODAY UNTIL 1PM ON THURSDAY.

2- If we are at freezing or below, we’ll continue to see ice accumulate on all structures and surfaces. Once we rise above freezing, the rain will slowly melt the ice. On Thursday as this system moves away, winds will increase so hopefully most of the ice will have melted. This said, if any electrical was weakened, it most likely may pop, catch fire, or fall.

3- Lets talk FLOOD WATCH- Per guidance, we could see 3 to 4 inches of rainfall between now and tomorrow here in north central OK. If you travel, be extremely careful and stay aware of low-lying areas. From ice storm to flood watch, only in Oklahoma.

4- All Government entities need to keep track of all expenditures since the ice storm occurred. The Governor has declared a State of Emergency which opens the door for state, county, and local governments to be reimbursed for additional expenditures due to the ice storm. Right now, this is only for government entities.

5- For those still without power, please be patient as OGE works to get everyone back up and operational. Continue to call them. I received 2 calls during the night getting cussed out because they were out of power. NOT MY FAULT. Oh well, life continues.

6- I talk about being prepared all the time. This early ice storm should be that wake up call for many of you out there. Download our GARFIELD COUNTY EM app. Its loaded with information that could just save your life and/or make things a little easier when life takes the power away.

Here is your forecast from the NWS/NORMAN;

Wednesday-Rain or freezing rain, becoming all rain after 10am. Some thunder is also possible. High near 38. North wind around 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New ice accumulation of less than a 0.1 of an inch possible.

Wednesday Night-Rain. Low around 36. North wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New precipitation amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

HAVE A GOOD DAY!

MIKE