Tulsa, Oklahoma – A major weather pattern shift will bring increasing rain and thunderstorm chances across Oklahoma starting Sunday, with a stronger system raising the risk of severe storms by Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, a large-scale change in the upper-level pattern will pull deeper Gulf moisture into the state early next week. Rain and scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop Sunday and continue through much of the week, with the greatest severe weather potential arriving Wednesday into Wednesday evening.
Forecasters highlight southeast Oklahoma, including McAlester, Poteau and Hugo, as the area of greatest concern. West-central Arkansas, including Fort Smith and Greenwood, also faces an elevated risk. The Storm Prediction Center places much of the region in a 15% severe thunderstorm risk area Wednesday, meaning storms could produce large hail and damaging wind gusts.
Tulsa, Muskogee and surrounding communities could see multiple rounds of showers before the midweek system peaks. Drivers along U.S. 69, the Creek Turnpike and Interstate 40 should prepare for ponding on roads during heavier downpours. Residents are urged to review severe weather safety plans, enable wireless emergency alerts and secure outdoor items ahead of Wednesday.
Additional updates are likely as timing and storm intensity become clearer. Watches or warnings could be issued by midweek as conditions evolve.
