Tulsa, Okla. – Parts of far northeast Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas could see dangerous flash flooding Thursday morning as heavy rain sweeps through the region. Rainfall totals may reach 2 to 4 inches in most areas, with isolated pockets climbing to 6 inches.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, a Flood Watch is in effect from 1 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday. Training thunderstorms are expected to move repeatedly over the same areas, creating rapid runoff that could flood creeks, streams, and low-lying roads. Officials warn that even mainstem rivers may see sharp rises.
Communities including Bartlesville, Miami, Muskogee, Fayetteville, and Fort Smith are within the watch zone. Drivers are urged to avoid water-covered roads, especially during the morning commute, when rainfall rates could overwhelm drainage systems.
Residents are encouraged to monitor forecasts overnight, keep multiple ways to receive warnings, and prepare to move quickly if alerts are issued. Emergency managers stress that flash flooding can develop faster than expected, particularly in flood-prone areas.
The Flood Watch expires at 1 p.m. Thursday, though lingering storms may still bring localized problems into the afternoon. Additional advisories could be issued if rainfall persists.
