Tulsa, OK – Residents across eastern Oklahoma and parts of northwest Arkansas are being urged to prepare for several days of heavy rainfall as repeated rounds of thunderstorms could bring flooding concerns through Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, a slight risk for excessive rainfall remains in place from Tuesday through Thursday, with a 15% to 40% chance of rainfall rates capable of producing flash flooding.
Forecasters expect widespread rainfall totals between 1 and 3 inches across much of the region. However, localized areas could receive more than 5 inches where thunderstorms repeatedly track over the same locations.
The heaviest rainfall is currently expected Tuesday night into Wednesday, when multiple rounds of storms are forecast to move through eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas.
Communities including Tulsa, Muskogee, Tahlequah, McAlester, Bartlesville, Pryor, Fort Smith and surrounding areas could experience periods of heavy rain. Low-lying areas, small creeks, streams and flood-prone roadways may be especially vulnerable if higher rainfall amounts develop.
According to the National Weather Service, flash flooding and rises on local rivers and streams are expected during the multi-day event. While widespread major river flooding is not currently forecast, officials say localized flooding could become significant in areas receiving repeated downpours.
Residents are encouraged to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings and remain alert to changing conditions throughout the week.
Drivers should never attempt to cross flooded roadways. Weather officials continue to emphasize the safety message: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
Additional flood watches and weather alerts may be issued as confidence increases in where the heaviest rain will fall.
