Tulsa, Oklahoma – Dangerous heat will blanket much of eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas Thursday, with “feels like” temperatures soaring as high as 105°F in cities like Tulsa, McAlester, and Fort Smith.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, afternoon highs will range from 90 to 97°F, but humidity will push heat indices into the 100–105° range, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion or stroke. Most of the region—including Muskogee, Bartlesville, and Fayetteville—will experience peak heat between 2 and 6 p.m.
While the region remains mostly dry, forecasters say southeast Oklahoma could see isolated showers and storms from 3 to 8 p.m., especially near Hugo and McCurtain County. Thunderstorm chances are low, around 10–20%, but any cells that develop may produce cloud-to-ground lightning, gusty winds, or localized downpours.
Residents are urged to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during peak heat, and check on elderly neighbors. Light-colored clothing and regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces are recommended. If thunder roars, move indoors immediately.
The excessive heat is expected to ease slightly by evening, but high temperatures return Friday. More advisories could be issued if heat or storms persist.
