Tulsa, Oklahoma – Sweltering summer heat is gripping eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas, as afternoon heat index values climb as high as 109°F through Friday evening. Major cities including Tulsa, Muskogee, and Fort Smith are under Heat Advisories, with conditions expected to put vulnerable residents at risk for heat illness and stress.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, advisories remain in effect from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday and from noon to 8 p.m. Friday for much of the region, including Pawnee, Bartlesville, and McAlester. High temperatures will range from 96°F to 101°F, but humidity will push the “feels like” readings even higher. Officials urge everyone to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, take frequent shade or air conditioning breaks, and keep an eye on children, seniors, and outdoor pets.
Those traveling on area highways or working outside should take extra precautions, as rapid heat illness can occur in these conditions. Emergency agencies recommend checking on neighbors and ensuring all animals have plenty of water and shelter from the sun.
This stretch of dangerous heat is expected to last through Friday evening, with additional advisories possible if the pattern continues into the weekend. Stay tuned for further updates and always follow local alerts.
