Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – Severe thunderstorms are expected to erupt by mid to late afternoon Saturday, with the most dangerous conditions developing between 4 p.m. and 11 p.m. as large hail, tornadoes, and destructive winds threaten major travel corridors including I-35, I-40, and I-44.
According to the NOAA Storm Prediction Center, an enhanced to moderate risk spans much of Oklahoma and southern Kansas, expanding into western Arkansas overnight. Initial supercell storms may produce hail between 2 and 3 inches in diameter and a few tornadoes, especially near Oklahoma City, Norman, Enid, and Wichita.
Storms are expected to grow into clusters through the evening, increasing the threat of widespread damaging wind gusts exceeding 60 mph. Cities including Tulsa, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, Wichita Falls, and Dodge City remain in the broader impact zone. Drivers could encounter sudden road closures, downed tree limbs, and near-zero visibility during peak storm intensity.
Residents should finalize severe weather plans now, charge mobile devices, and identify shelter locations. Avoid travel during the late afternoon and evening, particularly in areas under warnings.
Storm activity will shift east into Arkansas after 9 p.m. and continue overnight. Additional watches and warnings are likely as conditions evolve through Saturday night.
