What are OKC's snow routes? How to prepare for winter road conditions

Parts of the Oklahoma City metro are gearing up for a round of winter weather on Monday with the National Weather Service predicting snowfall to begin before noon.

While Oklahoma City will likely see less than an inch of snow, areas in western Oklahoma could see up to six inches. The heaviest bands of snow are expected to stay south and west of the Oklahoma City area.

"High risk of disappointment for snow lovers in OKC metro area today," the NWS in Norman posted on Twitter. "You'll be on the northern edge of the heavier snow, so places like Mustang, Blanchard and Newcastle more likely to see snow than much of OKC, Moore or Edmond.

Monday's predicted winter weather follows a surprise snow shower Friday night. After temperatures dropped Friday afternoon, a small but heavy band of snow moved through the area during the evening.

OKC snow routes, road conditions map

Snow routes are roads targeted to be salted, sanded and plowed first during heavy snow. The City of Oklahoma City's website hosts an official map with real-time updates of snow routes on city roads.

Sixteen cities, four counties and numerous state agencies in the central Oklahoma area collaborated for the comprehensive network of snow routes between Guthrie and Yukon.

Another interactive map from the Oklahoma Department of Transportation shows known road hazards and live photos from around the state.

How to drive safely on snowy, icy roads

Meteorologists are warning the winter storm could impact travel conditions for several days.

"I would definitely stock up on water, canned foods and just things you should have at your house so that you don't have to leave," said Ryan Bunker, a meteorologist in Norman. "We advise people to not travel if they don't have to."

More: OKC homeless shelters brace for surge as frigid temperatures expected

If you do have to travel, however, officials and experts are offering tips on staying safe and warm.

• Make sure your car's battery is charged and your fuel tank is full. "Especially when it gets really cold, make sure your car's got plenty of gas," Bunker said. "If your tank's already almost on (empty), it's probably not going to start." This is also because, during winter, it's possible for condensation to freeze inside the empty areas of a gas tank and prevent you from starting your vehicle. Winter weather also tends to cause unexpected traffic issues, and you might use more gas than you typically expect. And if you do become stranded and need to stay warm, your vehicle will last longer with a good battery and a full tank.

• Dress appropriately and drive with care. "Make sure, if you do need to leave, give yourself plenty of time to get to where you're going," Bunker said. "Drive slower than what you normally would, and if there's a car in front of you, give that person more space in case you need to stop. And of course, before you head out, make sure you're layered up in warm clothing."

• Check your tires, and avoid braking on icy roads. Oklahoma already ranks high in automobile-related fatalities, according to Leslie Gamble, a public affairs manager with the American Automobile Association. Slick roads and bridges also increase the risk of car tires losing traction. Don’t slam on the brakes if you start to skid, because that can actually make the skid even worse. If you're coming up on a patch of ice, brake gently during your approach. If you do start to skid, ease off of the pedal and steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go.

• Know your vehicle well and pack a kit with you for emergencies. "You can reduce the chance of a breakdown by keeping your vehicle up-to-date on maintenance, and checking to be sure tires and battery are road ready," Gamble said. Always remain mindful of weather conditions (as well as the condition of your own car) while you drive. Keep an emergency kit nearby, too, just in case.

Winter weather emergency kits recommended

"The goal, should you break down, is to stay as safe and warm as possible while waiting for help," Gamble said. "Research indicates that only 40% of motorists have emergency kits in their vehicles. No one ever expects to need it, but it's best to be prepared."

Related: Oklahoma struggles with traffic accidents after winter storm

Experts recommend emergency kits include:

• A phone charger and an additional mobile phone, programmed with important numbers and emergency apps.

• Snow shovel

• De-icer

• Ice scrapers and brushes

• A sack of sand or cat litter (to help with tire traction)

• Flashlights with extra batteries

• Jumper cables for your car's battery

• Extra warm clothing (gloves, hats, scarves) and blankets

• Warning devices, like flares

• Drinking water and extra, non-perishable food

• A first-aid kit

• A basic toolkit, with screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches

"Emergency supplies should include whatever you would need to keep you and your passengers safe and warm while waiting for help to arrive," Gamble said.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma road conditions: See OKC's snow routes, how to prepare