A Gradual Warming Trend This Week

Temps are below freezing across most of the area this morning with highs expected to reach the upper 40s and lower 50s this afternoon. A gradual warming trend will begin soon and reach the 70s by Christmas Eve. A few weak wind shifts will arrive across northern OK for the next few days. No major systems are nearby for the week, but we are tracking a system near and south of the area today.

The main northern polar stream will remain well north of the plains for this forecast period with the southern stream bringing a system near the region today before exiting early Tuesday morning. A mid-level ridge begins to influence the pattern for the rest of the week before a strong short-wave scoots across the central plains Friday night. This will bring a front across the area either late Friday evening or early Saturday. No precipitation is likely with this late-week system. 

A few showers will be likely today across the Red River Valley with better chances into north TX. But some light precipitation is possible across southeastern OK, including portions of Pittsburgh, Latimer and Le Flore counties. Some very light precipitation this morning near the Arbuckles may briefly change to freezing rain or sleet with no accumulations expected. The impact of this system for northeastern OK will bring occasional clouds with the sunshine mix and highs in the lower 50s. Temps will continue to be chilly for the morning hours, but daytime highs will reach the upper 50s and lower 60s Tue and Wed with highs reaching the upper 60s Thursday. 

Christmas Eve features a gusty southwest wind from 20 to near 35 mph with another chance of nearing record highs in the mid to upper 70s. The combination of gusty southwest winds and dry vegetation also increased the fire spread rates across most of the state. 

A weak front enters the area Friday evening and should drop temps a few degrees for Christmas Day. We currently have highs in the lower 60s with north winds and sunshine for most of the day. Any changes would bring the temps down a few degrees, possibly with highs in the upper 50s. Another warming trend is likely for the early part of the week after Christmas, but the data also suggest a stronger front will be nearing by the New Year’s Holiday. 

Thanks for reading the Monday morning weather discussion and blog.

Have a super great day!

Alan Crone

KOTV

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