TULSA, Okla. — A hot, windy Columbus Day is kicking off the week across eastern Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas, with rising fire danger and a brief taste of late-summer heat before a cooler shift later this week.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, gusty south winds up to 30 mph and humidity dropping near 25 percent will heighten grassfire risk today across northeast Oklahoma, especially along U.S. 75 and Highway 412. Residents are urged to delay outdoor burning and use caution with equipment that could spark flames.
Monday’s warmth continues with highs in the upper 80s to near 90 through Tuesday before cooler, calmer conditions return midweek. The Weather Service said strong high pressure will keep skies mostly sunny and rain limited until late in the week. By Friday, another system moving into the Plains could bring scattered showers and thunderstorms, mainly north of Interstate 44.
Drivers heading back to work and students returning after the Columbus Day holiday will face breezy, dry commutes. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation recommends securing loads on vehicles, as strong crosswinds may affect high-profile trucks on open stretches of I-44 and I-40.
Temperatures are expected to trend downward slightly by Wednesday, offering a more typical October feel ideal for pumpkin patch visits and fall festivals. No frost or freeze is expected yet, but drier air could increase allergy and sinus irritation midweek.
Five-Day Forecast for Tulsa, OK:
Mon: 92/68 – Mostly sunny, breezy; fire risk along U.S. 75.
Tue: 87/65 – Mostly clear; warm and dry.
Wed: 87/64 – Sunny and calm; pleasant fall afternoon.
Thu: 86/63 – Sunny; light winds and low humidity.
Fri: 83/63 – Scattered showers possible; slight thunder risk north of I-44.
