Heat Wave Continues.

In case you are wondering just how a heat wave is defined, it is actually rather generic and according to the AMS Glossary is: "A period of abnormally and uncomfortably hot and usually humid weather." Notice there are no actual numeric criteria involved so it is somewhat arbitrary. Since we have been running anywhere from 6 to 12 degrees above normal for the last 10 days now, this would certainly qualify as a heat wave. Next question is: When do we get a break from this early season heat wave?

The good news is that for the last day or two the longer range guidance has been hinting at a potential break in this pattern by later this week. The guidance that has come in so far today has maintained that trend so we do have some consistency between models and from run to run. The upper level ridge that has been the source of such unusually hot and dry weather is expected to gradually break down as the week wears on which will allow a weak cool front to move into the state along about Friday or Saturday. This will knock temperatures back and also provide at least a slight chance of some badly needed showers and storms. That is certainly subject to change, but so far the trends are pointing in that direction.

In the meantime, our daytime temperatures will be generally in the mid-upper 90s along with heat index values close to 100. At night, Tulsa proper will only be dropping into the mid 70s although the more outlying areas will be in the upper 60s to low 70s. Anyway you look at it, those numbers are still way above normal for this time of year so let's hope that weak boundary will make it down here later in the week to provide some relief.

As always, stay cool, stay tuned, and check back for updates.

Dick Faurot