Oklahoma Weather Watch

Less wind this weekend and more sun with warmer temperatures.  Expect increasing clouds and slighter cooler temperatures on Monday.  This Sunday at 2:00 a.m. is time to move your clocks forward by one hour for Daylight Saving Time.    

AAA's Tips for Driving on Ice and Snow

Before you leave:

• Cold weather starts require a healthy battery. If yours is more than two years old, have it checked.
• Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread.
• Top off all fluids under the hood.  Check belts and hoses
• Stock your trunk with jumper cables, an ice scraper and snow brush, first aid kit, paper towels, working flashlight, snacks, simple tools, extra warm clothing and blankets.
• Carry a cell phone and charger cord with you in the vehicle.
• For added traction in a rear-wheel car or pickup, place weighty objects such as cinder blocks or bags of sand in the trunk or truck bed.
• It will take you longer to reach your destination. Allow extra time.
• Dress for the weather in layers.
• Clear ice and snow from all windows.
• Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage.

As you drive:

• Remember that bridges and overpasses will ice up first.
• Beware of "black ice" - ice on asphalt pavement you cannot see.
• Allow extra space between you and the vehicle in front of you.
• Anticipate the flow of traffic and time your movement through intersections equipped with traffic signals so as to minimize the use of your brakes.
• Avoid sudden steering movements, sudden braking and sudden accelerating.  These actions will throw your vehicle into a skid on slick pavement.
• If you do begin to skid, don't panic, take your foot off the brake or gas pedal and steer the vehicle in the direction you want to go.
• Traction is greatest just before your wheels start to spin.
• All vehicles take about the same distance to stop, whether 4-wheel drive or not.
• Do not use cruise control when driving on slippery surfaces.
• Buckle up, limit distractions inside the vehicle and expect the unexpected.

For closings, road conditions and other winter weather information, go to www.ok.gov.