Sheriff Urges Caution on Area Roads Following Winter Storm

News | January 26, 2026, 1:15 PM by Paragon Staff

Elk City, OK – Drivers across western Oklahoma are urged to continue using caution following the recent winter storm that moved through the region, according to Beckham County Sheriff Derek Manning.

While the area avoided some of the worst impacts seen in past storms, snow-packed and icy roads remain a concern, especially on county roads and less-traveled routes. Manning said advance notice of the storm and reduced traffic played a major role in limiting serious accidents.

“We’ve worked much worse storms than this,” Manning said. “I think we got a little lucky, and a lot of that had to do with people staying off the roads and leaders making tough calls ahead of time.”

Manning credited school administrators, churches, and local officials for delaying openings and canceling activities, which significantly reduced traffic during the most hazardous periods. He noted traffic levels on Interstate 40 were noticeably lower than normal for a winter weekend, helping crews work more efficiently and safely.

Main highways, including I-40 and state highways, have been scraped and treated and remain passable. However, Manning said drivers should expect lingering icy and snowy patches caused by packed snow that refroze. Those conditions will persist until warmer temperatures or increased traffic help break them up.

County roads and city streets are still snow packed in many areas. Road crews have been actively scraping and prioritizing main routes, but progress takes time, particularly with cold temperatures continuing.

Manning emphasized that the lack of widespread ice made a major difference in avoiding more dangerous conditions. Ice storms, he said, are far more hazardous and often lead to power outages and severe roadway issues.

“With snow, people can see the danger,” Manning said. “Ice is what really causes problems because people don’t always realize how slick it is until it’s too late.”

The local forecast calls for continued cold temperatures, with daytime highs remaining near or below freezing and overnight lows well below freezing. These conditions mean snow and ice will remain on roadways, especially in shaded areas, on bridges, and on secondary roads.

Manning urged drivers who must be out to slow down, leave extra following and braking distance, and avoid sudden braking, acceleration, or sharp turns. He reminded motorists that posted speed limits apply to ideal weather conditions and that Oklahoma law requires drivers to operate at a speed reasonable for current conditions.

“If you don’t have to be out, don’t be,” Manning said. “If something can wait 24 hours and it’s not life or death, you’ll usually see a big improvement in road conditions.”

Law enforcement reported only minor accidents over the weekend, with no major crashes or extended road closures. Warming centers in Sayre and Elk City also saw lighter-than-expected use.

Manning said preparation and patience helped the community avoid more serious issues and encouraged residents to continue using caution until conditions fully improve.