Weather conditions expected to deteriorate over weekend

WOODWARD, Okla. (AP) – The National Weather Service in Norman says strong wind gusts can be expected up to 45 miles per hour Sunday, especially in portions of upper northwestern Oklahoma near the Woodward area as a winter storm nips at the state’s heels.

The forecast predicts that sometimes heavy precipitation in these areas will be widespread.

Projection models from the weather service indicate that much of the northern portion of western Oklahoma will be affected by freezing and sleet, while the remaining portion of the state, and east of Oklahoma City, are expected to get hit with rain.

By Monday, conditions in the area near western Oklahoma are expected to deteriorate further, with snow expected from Woodward to Ardmore. Winds will remain strong, with gusts forecast up to 35 mph, along with blowing snow.