Tulsa, OK – Thunderstorms are set to develop over eastern Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas by Thursday afternoon, bringing lightning and gusty winds. The stormy weather could potentially affect travel and outdoor plans in Tulsa and surrounding areas.
According to the National Weather Service, isolated thunderstorms will develop starting in the afternoon, intensifying into the evening. These storms could create dangerous lightning conditions and brief, heavy rainfall, though they should weaken after sunset. Travelers should be cautious, especially on roads like U.S. Route 169 and Interstate 44, where visibility could decrease rapidly.
The greatest risk is lightning, but the storms may also cause strong wind gusts that could impact trees and power lines. In areas with heavier rain, localized flooding could also pose a danger, especially in low-lying regions. The NWS has advised residents to stay indoors during the heaviest rainfall and avoid unnecessary travel if possible.
These thunderstorms will be moving northeast, so they could impact locations like Rogers, OK, and Fort Smith, AR, later in the evening. While the chance of severe weather is low, conditions could change rapidly, especially in the higher elevations of northwest Arkansas.
Extended Forecast:
- Thursday: Thunderstorm potential. High of 80°F, low around 69°F.
- Friday: Scattered thunderstorms. High of 84°F.
- Saturday: Partly sunny with a slight chance of showers. High of 87°F.
- Sunday: Slight chance of thunderstorms. High near 89°F.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 91°F.
