Arkansas Oklahoma Gas Urges Customers to Prepare Ahead of Upcoming Winter Storm

Simple steps can help customers stay safe during severe winter weather

1/21/2026

FORT SMITH, Ark. (Jan. 21, 2026) – With a major Arctic blast expected to impact the region later this week, Arkansas Oklahoma Gas (AOG) urges customers to prepare now for hazardous winter weather and prolonged freezing temperatures.

Forecasts indicate snow, freezing rain, and ice could begin Friday and continue through the weekend, with dangerously cold temperatures lingering early next week. These conditions may lead to slick or impassable roads, power outages, and limited access to homes and businesses, particularly in areas with significant ice accumulation.

“Winter storms can create challenging and unpredictable conditions,” said Eliza Castillo, vice president of customer experience and marketing. “We want our customers to stay warm and informed, prepare their homes ahead of time, and know that our team members are ready to support them throughout this weather event.”

AOG prepares year-round for severe weather by strengthening infrastructure, closely monitoring system conditions, and coordinating response efforts to help maintain safe and reliable natural gas service during extreme conditions. To help stay safe this weekend, AOG recommends customers take the following precautions:

• Clear snow and ice around outdoor vents, meters, and flues to prevent blockages. Use a broom, not a shovel, to gently remove snow around gas equipment and avoid causing damage.
• Check proper ventilation in enclosed spaces and never use gas ovens or stovetops as a primary heat source.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors in key areas of your home and test the batteries regularly. If you suspect carbon monoxide exposure (headache, dizziness, nausea), leave your home immediately and call emergency services.
• Prepare a winter emergency kit with essentials such as blankets, flashlights, non-perishable food, and essential medications.
• Know the signs of a gas leak. Natural gas has a sulfur-like odor. If detected, leave the area immediately, avoid using electronics, and call 911 from a safe location.

AOG offers energy-saving tips to reduce energy use and manage heating costs during winter weather:

• Health-allowing, lower thermostats when away from home or asleep.
• Keep vents unobstructed to improve airflow.
• Close unused fireplace dampers and garage doors.
• Seal drafts around windows and doors.
• Use natural sunlight during the day and close curtains at night.

Customers experiencing financial hardship are encouraged to reach out to AOG. Flexible payment options and energy assistance resources may be available. Additional information can be found on AOG’s payment assistance webpage. To learn more, visit aogc.com/paymentassistance.

More winter preparedness and energy-saving tips are available at aogc.com/winter.

Summit Utilities, Inc. owns natural gas distribution subsidiaries that operate in Arkansas, Colorado, Maine, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. The company operates with a commitment to delivering clean, reliable, and affordable natural gas to businesses and residents in six states through Arkansas Oklahoma Gas, Colorado Natural Gas, Summit Natural Gas of Maine, Summit Natural Gas of Missouri, Summit Utilities Arkansas, and Summit Utilities Oklahoma. Each of Summit’s natural gas distribution and transmission subsidiaries constructs and operates natural gas distribution systems to support economic development through its commitment to reliability, safety practices, exceptional customer service, and community engagement. Overall, Summit entities serve approximately 625,000 customers and operate more than 23,400 miles of pipeline.