Ice-Glazed Roads Cause Multiple Vehicle Accidents in Tulsa, Oklahoma, as Freezing Rain Turns Streets Hazardous
TULSA, OKLAHOMA — Several vehicle accidents were reported across Tulsa Monday morning as ice accumulation turned roads dangerously slick following overnight freezing rain. Emergency crews responded to multiple crashes across the metro area, as drivers struggled to maintain control on glazed overpasses and bridges.
Photos captured by local resident Clifton Keathley show Tulsa firefighters and paramedics assisting at the scene of a multi-vehicle collision, where two cars collided on an icy stretch of roadway. The Tulsa Fire Department and EMS units were seen working carefully amid treacherous conditions, as the roadway shimmered with a visible layer of ice.
Icy Conditions Develop Overnight
Forecasters say that a shallow layer of freezing air near the surface caused rain to freeze on contact with cold pavement early Monday, coating major roads, overpasses, and parking lots across northeastern Oklahoma.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Tulsa reported that light freezing rain and drizzle began just before dawn, leading to rapid ice buildup. The thin layer—measured at just a few hundredths of an inch—was enough to create extremely slick surfaces and lead to a series of spinouts and fender-benders.
“Even a small amount of ice can make bridges and overpasses nearly impassable,” meteorologists warned Monday morning. “If you don’t have to travel, it’s best to stay off the roads until conditions improve.”
Multiple Accidents Reported Across the City
Tulsa police and fire departments responded to numerous crashes throughout the early morning hours, particularly along the Broken Arrow Expressway, Highway 169, and I-44, where untreated ramps froze quickly.
Drivers reported losing control at low speeds, with some vehicles sliding into guardrails or colliding with other cars. In several cases, responders had to temporarily close lanes to remove disabled vehicles and treat injured occupants.
While most of the reported injuries were minor, officials urged caution and patience as crews continued to treat the roads.
Travel Advisory Issued
By mid-morning, city officials advised that travel should be limited to essential trips only. Crews with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) deployed salt and sand trucks to major routes, though slick spots remained widespread into the late morning hours.
“We’re seeing progress on the main highways, but many neighborhood streets and bridges remain hazardous,” ODOT officials said. “Drivers should slow down, allow extra time, and avoid sudden braking.”
Temperatures to Stay Below Freezing
Meteorologists expect temperatures to hover near or just below freezing through the afternoon, delaying improvements until later in the day. Another round of light freezing drizzle could develop Monday night, maintaining the risk for additional slick spots into Tuesday morning.
Residents are advised to monitor local forecasts and avoid travel until road crews can fully clear and treat icy areas.
For the latest weather and road updates, follow NapervilleLocal.com for developing coverage.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.