Tulsa, Oklahoma – Dangerous heat is once again gripping eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas, with heat index values climbing as high as 115 degrees Saturday and remaining dangerously high through much of next week. The prolonged stretch of extreme heat is expected to increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially during the afternoon and early evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, an Extreme Heat Warning and Heat Advisory are in effect from noon until 8 p.m. Saturday across much of eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas. Areas under the Extreme Heat Warning could see heat index values up to 115 degrees, while locations under the Heat Advisory may experience heat index readings up to 110 degrees.
Communities including Tulsa, Bartlesville, Muskogee, Okmulgee, Pryor, McAlester, Tahlequah, and Fort Smith, Arkansas, should prepare for several days of oppressive heat. Forecast heat index values remain above 105 degrees through much of next week, with Tulsa expected to reach 111 degrees Saturday, 109 degrees Sunday, and 111 degrees Monday. Fort Smith could experience heat index values near 110 degrees Saturday and 109 degrees Sunday, while Muskogee may reach 113 degrees Saturday and remain above 109 degrees into next week.
Residents are urged to postpone strenuous outdoor activities until the early morning or evening hours, drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks in air-conditioned buildings or shaded areas, and wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Check on older adults, young children, neighbors, and anyone without reliable cooling, and never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.
The dangerous heat is expected to persist well into next week, and additional warnings or advisories may be issued as the prolonged period of extreme temperatures continues.
Five-Day Forecast for Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Saturday: Heat index around 111°. Extreme Heat Warning from noon to 8 p.m.
- Sunday: Heat index around 109°. Dangerous heat continues.
- Monday: Heat index around 111°. Oppressive heat persists.
- Tuesday: Heat index around 109°. Very hot and humid conditions continue.
- Wednesday: Heat index around 108°. Continued dangerous afternoon heat.
