Tulsa, Okla. – Calm skies stretch over Green Country early Thursday morning, but the stillness won’t last. A slow-moving fall storm is brewing across the Southern Plains, poised to soak eastern Oklahoma with rounds of rain and thunderstorms from Friday into Saturday — possibly the heaviest rain the region has seen in weeks.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, scattered showers may sneak in Thursday night, but the main event begins Friday. Moist, warm air from the Gulf of Mexico will feed a strengthening system, sending waves of rain across eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas. The heaviest rainfall is expected Friday night through Saturday morning, when totals of 1 to 3 inches are likely, and localized amounts up to 4 inches could trigger flash flooding.
Travel along I-44, U.S. 75, and I-40 could slow under periods of heavy rain, and ponding is possible on secondary roads. While widespread severe storms aren’t expected, the NWS says isolated thunder and strong wind gusts could develop in southeastern counties late Friday.
Saturday stays damp with steady showers and the chance of a few embedded thunderstorms. Drier, cooler air should return Sunday, setting up a calmer pattern early next week. Highs will drop back into the mid-60s by Monday, bringing a more seasonable feel for late October.
For now, residents are urged to check drainage areas, avoid parking in low spots, and have alternate travel plans ready in case of localized flooding. The next 48 hours mark a wet, unsettled stretch — one that could easily alter weekend plans across Green Country.
Five-Day Forecast for Tulsa, OK:
Thu: 78/57 – Mostly sunny; clouds build late.
Fri: 63/56 – Rain and thunder; heavy downpours possible.
Sat: 67/54 – Showers, isolated storms; flood risk early.
Sun: 73/57 – Partly sunny; drying trend.
Mon: 72/51 – Mostly clear; cooler breeze returns.
