Tulsa, OK – Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected to move into eastern Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas from Wednesday night through Friday morning, with the highest flood risk arriving on Thursday, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Tulsa.
According to NWS forecasters, numerous showers and scattered storms will develop Wednesday night, producing between 0.25 and 0.75 inches of rainfall, with a low chance of some areas reaching 1 inch or more. This early round of storms will set the stage for a more significant rainfall event Thursday into Thursday night.
Forecasters say there is at least a 15% chance of excessive rainfall Thursday, capable of producing flash flooding across much of eastern Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas. Additional rainfall totals of 1–2 inches are expected Thursday, with storm totals climbing to 2–4 inches across the region. Isolated pockets may see as much as 5 inches.
The greatest flood concerns include small creeks, streams, urban areas with poor drainage, and underpasses. Main stem river flooding may also develop if higher rainfall amounts materialize. Communities from Tulsa to Muskogee, McAlester, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and surrounding areas should remain alert for rapid water rises.
Rain will continue into Friday, especially east of Tulsa, though intensity is expected to decrease as the system gradually exits the region.
NWS urges residents to monitor weather alerts closely through midweek and exercise caution when encountering water-covered roads. “Turn around, don’t drown” precautions remain critical, particularly during periods of heavier rain Thursday and Thursday night.
