Tulsa, Oklahoma – Back-to-back rounds of severe storms are expected to impact southeastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas starting Thursday afternoon, with the strongest weather threats continuing into Friday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, both Thursday, May 15, and Friday, May 16, bring risks of large hail and damaging wind gusts, especially during the afternoon and evening hours. The most at-risk areas include Fort Smith, McAlester, and surrounding parts of far southeast Oklahoma and western Arkansas.
Thursday’s threat is more isolated, but Friday shows a broader risk zone creeping into eastern Oklahoma, including areas near Tahlequah, Poteau, and Clarksville. Residents in these areas should monitor weather updates closely, as any developing storm could intensify rapidly with hail and strong winds likely.
Drivers are urged to avoid travel during active thunderstorms, as winds could down tree limbs and hail may damage vehicles. Power outages and lightning-related hazards are also possible. Seek shelter indoors if thunder is heard.
This two-day severe weather window could shift as new data arrives. Additional updates and potential watches are likely as Friday approaches. Stay weather-aware and check local alerts through NWS Tulsa or weather.gov.
