What a week! While it may have been colder in the past, according to the +20 years of data on Mesonet Mangum had its coldest recorded low at -11. Hobart’s low for the week was -10 and Altus’ was -7. At those temperatures any breeze quickly had windchills close to -30.
Of course at -10 to -30, lakes & pipes were freezing solid. This was not the first time Lake Altus-Lugert froze over. The most recent event was 10 years, Feb. 10, 2011. Pelicans were observed, standing on the ice, looking down at fish that they couldn’t reach.
Of course, Oklahoma weather seems to always be a roller coaster of temperature changes. Ten degrees below zero last week. Sixty five degrees above this week. In 2017, on Feb. 11 Mesonet indicates Mangum registered 99 degrees! That’s hot at any time of the year but 99 degrees in February is SCORCHING!
The various extended (10 to 15 day) forecasts have our highs between 40 and 70 degrees. Lows at night will be from the upper 20’s to upper 30’s.
Those low temperature will feel wonderful after windchills of 0 to -25. Below freezing temperatures at night will keep many plants dormant. It will be nice if the grass doesn’t have to be mowed until spring break.
Most area schools, including Vernon & Amarillo will be having Spring Break the same week (March 12-20). If you want a camp site for Spring Break, please go to www.travelok.com as soon as possible and reserve your camp site or cabin. There is a 2 night minimum on weekends. Want to come camping at one of the summer Holiday weekends? There is a 3 night minimum and those sites are filling fast!