Dense Fog Advisory Extended Into Tulsa and Northwest Arkansas as Freezing Fog Threatens Slick Roads Across Oklahoma

TULSA, OKLAHOMA — A Dense Fog Advisory has been extended across much of Oklahoma and into northwest Arkansas tonight, with forecasters warning that freezing fog could create dangerously slick roads where temperatures drop below freezing. The advisory includes major routes such as Interstate 44, I-40, and Highway 75, affecting evening and early-morning commuters across Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and Fort Smith.

Freezing Fog Expands Overnight

The National Weather Service reports that fog is already forming across central and eastern Oklahoma, and it’s expected to thicken overnight as surface winds calm and temperatures fall into the upper 20s and low 30s. In northern sections of the state, including Tulsa County and Bartlesville, the fog will likely freeze on contact with road surfaces, producing patches of black ice.

This freezing fog can create an invisible glaze on bridges, overpasses, and untreated roadways, catching drivers off guard. Meteorologists say conditions will be most dangerous from midnight through 9 a.m. Saturday, when visibility could drop to under a quarter-mile in some locations.

Icy Roads and Travel Hazards Possible

Transportation officials are urging motorists to slow down and avoid sudden braking or lane changes overnight. The mix of fog and freezing temperatures could lead to slick spots and low visibility, especially in low-lying areas and river valleys. Oklahoma City and Norman are expected to stay just above freezing, where dense fog without ice will be the main concern.

Farther south toward Dallas and Fort Worth, patchy fog is also developing, but warmer air will likely prevent icing. Still, travelers along the I-35 corridor should be cautious of fluctuating temperatures as they cross into northern Oklahoma where the risk of freezing fog increases sharply.

Areas Under Advisory

The Dense Fog Advisory currently covers most of central and eastern Oklahoma, extending into parts of northwest Arkansas. Major cities affected include:

• Tulsa
• Oklahoma City
• Fort Smith, Arkansas
• Lawton
• McAlester

Visibility will vary depending on elevation and temperature, but meteorologists expect the heaviest concentration of freezing fog to occur north and west of Tulsa, including areas along Highway 412 and I-44.

Forecast and Safety Outlook

Conditions are expected to improve by mid-morning Saturday as sunlight helps dissipate the fog. However, any residual ice from overnight freezing will take time to melt, especially on shaded or elevated surfaces. Another round of patchy fog could redevelop late Saturday night if skies remain clear and winds stay light.

Drivers are encouraged to keep headlights on low beam, allow extra time for morning travel, and monitor local weather alerts before heading out. Even short trips could be hazardous if fog thickens unexpectedly overnight.

For more updates on road safety, travel conditions, and local forecasts across the central U.S., visit NapervilleLocal.com for the latest regional weather coverage.