Situation Update State Emergency Management
WINTER STORM CONTINUES TO IMPACT STATE
ISSUED: 5:15 p.m.
Due to the winter storm moving through Oklahoma, the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains activated and the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is in contact with emergency managers in the affected areas and will call on state and federal agencies to provide resources as needed.
Oklahoma remains under a State of Emergency, as approved by state authorities on Friday. The State of Emergency marks a first step toward seeking federal assistance, should it be necessary. Additionally, the executive order allows state agencies to make emergency purchases and acquisitions needed to expedite the delivery of resources to local jurisdictions.
The declaration provides a formal mechanism for local governments to seek reimbursement for recovery costs through the state’s disaster public assistance program as conditions warrant.
REPORTS AS OF ABOUT 5:15 p.m.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) investigated a total of 165 collisions related to the storm and responded to another 500 slide-off incidents that were not investigated.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health reports 43 people were treated for multi-vehicle accident related injuries due to the storm.
Motorists are advised not to travel unless absolutely necessary during adverse conditions. When traveling is necessary during snow and ice events, drivers should use caution and be alert on the roadways. Remember that bridges and overpasses are the first to freeze.
- Be aware of “black ice,” which looks wet on the roadway, but is actually a thin layer of ice.
- Please be patient, plan trips ahead and allow extra time to reach destinations.
AIRPORTS
Will Rogers International Airport in Oklahoma City reports the storm caused some flight delays and cancellations. Snow accumulation, high winds and freezing fog slowed operations at the airport earlier today. Anyone traveling and those going to meet travelers are urged to check with the airline regarding flight status before driving to the airport. Sunday could also see delays and cancellations at the airport.
MASS CARE
Cedar Lake Fire Department continues to operate a travelers rest center at the Rock of Restoration Church, 120 S. Walbaum, in Geary (I-40 at Exit #108).
OEM continues to receive updates from the National Weather Service and stands ready to assist the American Red Cross, Salvation Army and other disaster relief organizations in opening additional shelters and mass feeding sites as necessary.
STATE RESOURCES
OEM has industrial size generators pre-staged around the state. The generators will be deployed for use in hospitals, shelters and to keep water treatment plants online in the event of power outages. Please note these generators are not for residential use.
PRICE GOUGING STATUTE IN EFFECT
Oklahoma’s price gouging statute is in effect in all of Oklahoma’s 77 counties due to the State of Emergency. The price gouging statute prohibits an increase of more than 10 percent in the price of most goods and services when a State of Emergency has been declared. Anyone who suspects price gouging is urged to contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Unit at (405) 521-2029.
HEALTH ISSUES
The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) would like to remind all citizens, in the areas impacted by the winter storm, to stay indoors. Anyone who must venture out is urged to dress in layers of warm clothing and take emergency supplies such as, blankets, extra food, water and a fully charged cell phone. If a vehicle becomes stranded remain inside with the emergency flashers on. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow and run the vehicle occasionally in order to keep the occupants warm. If venturing outdoors to check mail or to check on a home take a cell phone in case of a slip or fall.
In Tulsa, emergency medical officials responded to a rash of motor vehicle crashes during the late morning and early afternoon hours Saturday, as wintry precipitation began to impact travel. EMSA experienced higher than normal call volume between 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. During the 4.5 hour span, EMSA paramedics provided care to 14 people hurt in crashes and four individuals who suffered injuries after falling on wet or snowy surfaces. None of the patients sustained life-threatening injuries.
EMSA call volume leveled off as the afternoon progressed. Paramedics report slick-but-improving conditions; motorists should continue to be cautious. Unnecessary travel is discouraged. Those who do drive need to observe slower speeds and increased distances between vehicles. Anyone walking outdoors should wear appropriate footwear and walk slowly; surfaces are quite slick.
DIAL 211
For Oklahoma residents seeking non-emergency disaster health and human service information, please contact your local 2-1-1. Services are available 24 hours a day by dialing 2-1-1 from your home or cellular telephone. Please only call 911 for emergencies.
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