Tulsa, OK – A widespread flood threat is developing across eastern Oklahoma, with forecasters warning of potentially dangerous rainfall totals leading into the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, a Flood Watch is in effect from 1 a.m. Thursday through 7 a.m. Sunday for areas southeast of a line from Grove to McAlester. Widespread rainfall totals of 4 to 6 inches are forecast, with localized areas possibly receiving 8 to 10 inches.
The Weather Service is anticipating several rounds of thunderstorms to develop and move across the region throughout the week. These storms will be capable of producing both flash flooding and mainstem river flooding, particularly in low-lying areas and near creeks and rivers.
Residents in the watch area — including cities such as Muskogee, McAlester, Hugo, Fort Smith, and Fayetteville — are urged to monitor local forecasts, heed flood warnings, and prepare to move to higher ground if conditions worsen. The heaviest rainfall is expected in southeast Oklahoma and into western Arkansas, where models suggest isolated rainfall totals could exceed 10 inches in the most impacted zones.
Officials emphasize the importance of flood safety during this multi-day storm event, urging drivers to never attempt to cross flooded roads. The National Weather Service is promoting its “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” campaign to reinforce this critical safety message.
Further updates will be issued as the storms develop and rain begins to accumulate across the region. Emergency management teams are preparing for potential swift water rescues and infrastructure impacts.
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