This Record Setting Summer Continues.

The heat just goes on. With less than two weeks to go in our summer(remember in the world of weather, we consider Jun 1-Aug 31 to be the summer months), the records continue to tumble. Barring any major surprises, this will not only turn out to be the hottest summer on record on a statewide level, but the hottest summer on record for any state at any time! For Tulsa proper, we will be just below all-time record levels, but the state wide numbers are obviously affected by the extreme heat and dryness for the more western counties. For example, the map on the right shows the total number of days so far of triple digit heat. OKC tied their record in that regard on Sat and will likely break it on Sun. Some of the SW counties are close to all time records as well.

Is there any relief in sight…..well, yes and no. Obviously with the shorter day length and the change of the seasons just around the corner, it will eventually get cooler. But, in the short term we are still looking at above normal temperatures through the coming week with possibly a bit of relief towards the end of the week.

A weak boundary will move through much of the state overnight and a more NE wind is expected for Sunday. Together with partly cloudy to at times mostly cloudy skies, that should keep us just below triple digits although the heat index will likely be at or above 100. A 20% chance of showers or storms will also provide some very localized relief.

Right now, Monday is shaping up to have more cloud cover and a better chance of showers or storms at 30%. These will be most likely for the more eastern counties, but the combination of clouds, a few cooling showers, and a more E to SE wind should also keep us just below triple digits. Even so, the heat index will likely be at or above 100 once again.

Tuesday and Wednesday look to be close to triple digits with heat index values well over 100 both days and little or no mention of rain. Another weak frontal boundary is still on tap to arrive Thursday which should trend temperatures down into the low-mid 90s. That is still above normal, but at least the trend is in the right direction.

By the way, if you have any travel plans for later in the coming week that would include Florida, I suggest you keep a close eye on the weather. The longer range guidance continues to strongly suggest a significant tropical system will likely be affecting that area. At present, there are no indications that it would directly impact the state of Oklahoma.

So, stay cool, stay tuned, and check back for updates.

Dick Faurot