Warming Trend, Chance of Showers.

Officially, Tulsa managed to avoid setting a record low temperature this morning, but freezing temperatures were widespread across the state as evidenced by the map on the right, courtesy of the OK Mesonet. The preliminary count has about a half dozen locations setting or tying records, including Bristow, Okmulgee, Tahlequah, and McAlester.

After such a cold start, the sunny skies for the rest of the day along with light SW winds will push afternoon temperatures at least 10-12 degrees above where we were at this time yesterday. That translates into lower 60s which is still about 10 degrees below normal to put things in perspective.

Southerly winds increasing to 10-15 mph during the overnight hours and a few high clouds will keep us milder to start the day Wednesday with lower 40s expected. Strong southerly winds up to 30 mph or more during the day along with a mix of sun and clouds should push the temperatures during the afternoon to near 70 which at least is closer to normal. However, those strong southerly winds will also result in an enhanced fire danger situation throughout the day.

The next weather maker will then arrive on Thursday with cloudy skies and a good chance of showers during the day ending that night. Right now, all indications suggest moisture will be limited and the lack of instability will also preclude any storms. Thus, although Thursday looks to be a wet day, rainfall totals will likely be on the light side for the most part. Notice the 3 day QPF map on the right which is valid through Friday morning. Up to about a 1/4 " is about the best we can expect with this system. The clouds and showers should also keep daytime temperatures in the mid 60s, so another cooler than normal day.

Friday and Saturday should be between systems with the next one still on tap to arrive by Easter Sunday. For Friday and Saturday we expect a mix of clouds and sun and a return to southerly winds by Saturday. That should push afternoon temperatures to near 70 Friday and well into the 70s Saturday. Both days now look to be dry.

Cannot say the same for Easter Sunday itself though as showers and possibly some storms will be a good bet before the day is over. Temperatures will be quite mild with morning lows in the 50s and daytime highs in the 70s.

So, stay tuned and check back for updates.

Dick Faurot