State of emergency declared in Oklahoma as winter storm hits

One person died in a weather-related crash on Interstate 44 near Geronimo, Comanche County officials said. At least three people died in a weather-related crash on State Highway 51 near Sand Springs, police said. The victims' identities have not been released.

Henry declared a state of emergency in all 77 counties, according to a news release. The declaration allows local authorities to seek reimbursement for storm-related costs through the state's disaster assistance program.

The governor also pleaded with Oklahomans to stay off the roads unless travel "is absolutely necessary."

Oklahoma City police and fire officials said city 911 lines are inundated with calls. Authorities ask people involved in non-injury accidents or in other situations not considered life-threatening to seek help from family, friends and private wrecker services.

Blizzard warning issued

Sleet and rain has changed to snow today in central Oklahoma, and heavy snowfall through the evening could leave up to 11 inches in parts of the state, forecasters say.

The National Weather Service issued a blizzard warning through 10 p.m. throughout most of Oklahoma. Heavy snow, wind gusts of 40 to 60 mph and dangerous wind chill levels are expected.

Roads are expected to be slick and hazardous throughout the state during the storm, according to the weather service. The relatively warm days leading up to the storm could lessen snow and ice accumulation, but a frigid arctic air mass arrives overnight and will send temperatures tumbling further.

Strong, gusty winds and blowing snow will add to the dangerous driving conditions this afternoon, weather service forecaster Daryl Williams said. Nearly a foot of snow is possible across southern Oklahoma today, and the Oklahoma City area could see about one-half foot.

Officials urge motorists to avoid driving if possible. Drivers should slow down, increase following distance and avoid distractions inside the vehicle. Authorities said those who must drive should pack extra warm clothing or blankets, food, water, a charged cell phone and sturdy shoes in case they become stuck.

Conditions deteriorating on roads statewide

Officials have reported worsening conditions on roadways throughout the state, including in the Oklahoma City area.

All interstates in the Oklahoma City area have been closed. A 50-car pileup is clogging Interstate 40 eastbound near Hudiburg Drive in Midwest City, said Midwest City Police Chief Brandon Clabes.

Two Midwest City police cars and an EMSA ambulance are involved in the pileup, Clabes said.

Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers have reported multiple weather-related crashes on all interstate highways and most other major state roads. Troopers are no longer responding to non-injury accidents in the Oklahoma City-area, instead focusing on roadway blockages and injury accidents.

Motorists involved in a non-injury accident are asked to pull off the roadway and exchange information.