Tulsa, Oklahoma – Drivers north of Interstate 44 have a narrow window to prepare as strong to severe thunderstorms sweep across northeast Oklahoma through 6 a.m. Wednesday, bringing the threat of large hail and wind gusts up to 60 mph.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, showers and thunderstorms are moving east at roughly 40 mph early this morning. The highest potential for severe weather is focused north of I-44, including Bartlesville, Pawhuska and Ponca City. Some storms may produce large hail and damaging wind gusts capable of downing small tree limbs and creating hazardous crosswinds.
Travel along U.S. 75, U.S. 60 and Highway 77 could become dangerous during heavier downpours, with sudden visibility drops and water pooling on roadways. In Tulsa, areas north of downtown along I-244 and U.S. 169 may experience brief but intense rainfall before sunrise.
Emergency managers urge residents to move indoors immediately when thunder is heard and to monitor weather alerts closely. Drivers should slow down on wet pavement and avoid flooded low-water crossings.
Storm intensity is expected to diminish gradually after daybreak as activity shifts east, but additional showers may linger into midmorning. Warnings could be issued with little lead time if stronger cells redevelop before 6 a.m.
