Tulsa, OK – A cold front is moving through eastern Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas today and tonight, bringing light rain chances, gusty winds, and elevated fire weather concerns across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, rain chances will develop this afternoon and increase overnight, primarily affecting southeast Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas. Rainfall amounts are expected to remain light, with most locations receiving less than one-tenth of an inch, though isolated areas could see up to a quarter inch.
Behind the cold front, gusty north winds of 25 to 35 mph are forecast to develop Tuesday afternoon. These winds, combined with dry air, will create limited fire weather concerns, especially across portions of northeast Oklahoma. Grassland fire spread rates are expected to increase, particularly during the late morning through afternoon hours.
The National Weather Service highlights that fire danger will be highest where dry fuels and strong winds overlap, including areas along US-75, US-412, I-44, and I-40. Residents are urged to properly extinguish any outdoor fires, avoid parking vehicles on dry grass, and securely dispose of smoking materials.
High temperatures today will range from the upper 50s to upper 70s ahead of the front, before cooler air settles in overnight. Winds will shift sharply to the north as the front passes, leading to rapidly changing conditions on area roadways.
Despite the wind and fire concerns, no widespread travel disruptions are expected, and rain will not be heavy enough to cause flooding issues.
Commuters, outdoor workers, and agricultural operations should remain alert for rapidly changing wind conditions Tuesday afternoon and evening.
Forecast updates will continue as the cold front moves through the region.
