Ice Storm in Oklahoma, December 25 to 27, 2000

Summary of winter weather events for December 25-27 2000.A slow moving winter storm moved across the State Christmas day bringing heavy freezing rain and dangerous ice accumulations. While all of Eastern Oklahoma received significant ice accumulations, East Central and Southeast Oklahoma were hardest hit. One to two inches of ice accumulation were common in these areas with locally higher amounts. Over 500 power poles were downed during the event and over 200,000 Oklahomans were without power. The heavy ice accumulations also left thousands without telephone and water service. Some locations in Southeast Oklahoma were without utility services for more than a week. Numerous shelters and feeding sites were established across Southeast Oklahoma to provide water, food and a warm place to sleep. Thousands of trees were damaged across Southeast Oklahoma including 7 State parks where damage was estimated at over 1 million dollars. Numerous reports of trees downed on vehicles and homes were reported across Southeast Oklahoma. Some of the areas that experienced the most damage were in Pittsburg, Latimer and LeFlore counties. While damage estimates were not finalized as of late February, a preliminary total for the state was $168.9 million.