Monday Morning Update

The near record high temps will continue for the next five to possibly 7 days with afternoon highs noted from 105 to 112 across northeastern OK.   The mid-level ridge of high pressure will continue to be the dominate feature of interest across the state, but there will be a slight weakness around the periphery including a slight chance of isolated storms across the OK-Ark state line not only today but for the next few days. 

The excessive heat warnings have been expanded to include several more counties outside of the immediate Tulsa county area.  This means overnight lows will not drop below 75 and daytime highs will range over 105.  The morning lows in the Tulsa metro will be very close to the lower and mid-80s!  We'll be experiencing near 100 degree temps by 10 to 10:30AM for the next few days as the temps soar into the dangerous levels of heat by early afternoon. 

The dew points will mix out during the afternoon allowing relative humidity to drop into the upper 20% range.  These conditions combined with south to southwest winds will increase the fire danger substantially today and tomorrow as dry vegetation combined with the weather conditions will add to an explosive fire spread conditions.   

The EURO data supports the ridge nudging slightly to the west over the next few days, but this would only bring some isolated storms into the far eastern or northeastern part of the viewing area.  Areas slightly more north and east (Central Kansas and Central Arkansas) will have scattered storms for the next few days.   

By the end of the period, the ridge may flatten slightly and weaken.  This would allow temps to drop about 10 degrees and could possibly allow for a weak upper level wave to slide across the region, but at this point, the heat wave will continue with no major relief anywhere in sight.   

During the peak of the cold winter months, we encourage travelers to pack extra survival gear, such as coats and blankets.  During this extreme heat wave, at least this week, we're encouraging you to pack water if you'll be traveling for any length of time on the highway.  If you experience a vehicle break-down and have to wait for an hour or two for help, you'll most definitely want to have some cool water in the car.  Plan ahead and take the extra time to pack some cold water for travel.   

Today will be the 23^rd day of 100+ readings for the Tulsa metro.  If the forecast verifies this week, we'll extend that number to 29.  

Today's record is 110 from 1986.  The normal average high is 94 and the normal average low is 73.  Rainfall for the year is currently at 24.35" and supports a deficit of -5.42" inches for the year.