News 9 Weather Team: Update On Christmas Day Snow Storm

A significant winter storm is expected Christmas Day. All traveling should be concluded by 9 a.m. Christmas morning. After 9 a.m., periods of moderate to heavy snow and fierce north winds will result in near-blizzard conditions.

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Make sure your vehicles are fueled, and prepared for freezing temperatures. If you MUST travel, have a first aid kit, food, water, and extra, heavy clothing in your vehicle in case you get stranded. Stock up on batteries and snow removal equipment. Prepare for the possibility of disrupted travel through Wednesday, depending on the amount of snow and speed of its removal.

12/24/2012 Related Story: Experts Warn Oklahomans To Prepare Emergency Kits For Winter Storm

Given the evolution and trends of the data, the heaviest snowfall will occur in a west-to-east orientated zone on either side of the Interstate 40 corridor. Here, snowfall totals may exceed 10 to 12 inches within localized, heavier bands of snow.

North winds of 20 to 35 mph with higher gusts will result in near-blizzard, or whiteout conditions. Considerable drifting of the snow is likely.