Tulsa, Oklahoma – Flash flooding is expected to threaten much of eastern Oklahoma through Saturday morning as a newly expanded Flood Watch now covers all areas along and north of I-40, including Tulsa, McAlester, and Fayetteville.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, the watch remains in effect from 1 a.m. Friday through 1 p.m. Saturday, with confidence growing in the potential for heavy rainfall late Thursday night and again Friday night. Widespread totals of 1 to 3 inches are likely, with localized areas possibly seeing even more.
Communities including Muskogee, Bartlesville, and Okmulgee should prepare for excessive runoff, especially in low-lying and urban areas. Streams and rivers across the region, including the Arkansas and Verdigris, could see rapid rises. Flash flooding may occur quickly, particularly in areas with poor drainage or recent saturation.
Travelers are urged to monitor road conditions and avoid flooded roadways. Emergency officials recommend having at least three ways to receive warnings and seeking higher ground if evacuation becomes necessary.
The threat may not end Saturday—additional rounds of heavy rainfall are possible Sunday and Monday, prompting concerns for prolonged flooding into early next week. Alerts may be extended as conditions evolve.
