Chance of Showers/Storms Wednesday, Hot & Humid Weekend.

The first map on the right, courtesy of the OK Mesonet, shows the max/min temperatures so far today. Keep in mind that the normal diurnal range for Tulsa at this time of year is around the 90/70 range. So, anytime we can be below that is usually a pretty good day. The next couple of days should also be just below normal as we will have better chances of showers/storms on Wednesday and perhaps Thursday which should hold temperatures down somewhat.

Also, the extensive rain footprint from the recent rains has the vegetation green and growing which will also help keep temperatures somewhat in check. Notice the second map on the right, also courtesy of the OK Mesonet, which shows the rainfall totals over the last two weeks. Some have received more than others, but we have all received enough for Green Country to be very green as we head into the month of July.

By the coming weekend our rain chances will be dropping off to not much more than the possibility of one or two isolated, terrain induced, afternoon heating type systems which will be very spotty at best. Since the chances will be less than 20% have opted not to put anything on the forecast for now. That also means temperatures will be gradually climbing with daytime highs likely in the low 90s by Saturday or Sunday. Will add another degree or two as we go into next week and with brisk southerly winds our nights will not be cooling off much either. Overnight lows in the mid 70s and daytime highs in the low 90s will be the general rule. Heat index values will be approaching triple digits during that time frame as well. At least those brisk southerly winds will provide some decent ventilation which will keep it from becoming too stifling outside.

Beyond that time frame, notice the next two maps on the right which show the trends for the 8-14 day time period. For early July, those trends are not too bad quite frankly. There is a below normal signal across the southern parts of the state for temperatures and precipitation chances should at least be near normal. Again, for early July, not too bad. Do not see any actual triple digit temperatures on our horizon anytime soon given those trends.

So, stay tuned and check back for updates.

Dick Faurot