Observations Associated with the
Blizzard of January 31-February 1, 2011

Many surface observation sites across the area recorded some impressive wind gusts, visibility reductions, and snow rates during the blizzard. We have provided a listing of hourly, and interesting intermediate observations, for both Oklahoma City (KOKC) and Wichita Falls (KSPS) during the event below. Observations that meet blizzard criteria with both winds (35 mph frequent gusts or sustained) and visibility (1/4 mile or less) will have the "weather" cell highlighted in pink.

Oklahoma City fell below freezing by 6:00 PM on January 31 (Monday), and precipitation started around 10:00 PM in the form of sleet. This initial precipitation was convective in nature, with thunder reported in the 9:52 PM observation. The sleet quickly changed to snow by midnight and became heavy by 3:00 AM Tuesday, which continued until noon. During this time, north winds increased in speed as low pressure deepened in east Texas. Sustained winds over 30 mph persisted during the snow, with frequent gusts to 45-50 mph. Blizzard conditions occurred on three different  observations (they were not consecutive, however).

Wichita Falls fell below freezing by 10:00 PM on January 31 (Monday), right as precipitation began to fall in the form of freezing rain. The freezing rain quickly began to mix with sleet and snow, finally changing to all snow by 1:00 AM on Tuesday. Overall, the storm was a bit less severe at Wichita Falls than at Oklahoma City. The snow lasted only until 8:00 AM, and was light to moderate for the storm's duration. The winds, while still strong, were generally sustained in the 25-30 mph range with gusts of 35-40 mph. Blizzard conditions did not occur at Wichita Falls.