Tulsa, Okla. – Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to roll into eastern Oklahoma early Friday morning, bringing damaging winds and the threat of large hail during the morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, the main threat window runs from 1 a.m. to 10 a.m. Friday, with a “slight risk” for severe storms extending from McAlester and Hugo north to Muskogee, Okmulgee, and Poteau. Wind gusts may exceed 70 mph, and hail up to the size of golf balls is possible in some isolated areas. Tulsa, Bartlesville, and Fayetteville are under a lower, “marginal” risk.
Heavy rainfall could cause localized flash flooding, particularly along low-lying roads and near creeks. The NWS warned residents to “Turn around, don’t drown” and urged drivers to use caution during morning travel. No tornado threat is currently expected.
Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items, charge mobile devices overnight, and stay weather-aware. Power outages and hazardous road conditions could impact schools and early-morning commutes.
Storm activity is expected to taper off by late morning Friday, but additional alerts could be issued if storm intensity increases overnight. Stay tuned to local warnings and NOAA weather radio for updates.
