Oklahomans might want to keep an umbrella handy and an eye to the sky this week, as the state sees a mixed bag of weather that includes chances for severe thunderstorms. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Oklahoma City, today's forecast includes a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m., with some having the potential to be severe.
While the morning began with a mostly cloudy sky and a warm 69°F, conditions are expected to clear up somewhat later with temperatures reaching highs near 83°F. Nevertheless, the temperatures come with a stipulation of unpredictable weather, as this region is no stranger to abrupt changes. The same forecast predicts winds coming in from the south southeast at 9 to 15 mph, with gusts that could reach as high as 23 mph. Even as the week progresses, Oklahomans should maintain vigilance.
The precarious weather continues into tonight, with the NWS outlining a chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10 p.m. and then again after 1 a.m. The evening promises to be partly cloudy with lows around 69°F and a consistent south wind, pushing the boundaries with gusts potentially as strong as 24 mph. The chance of precipitation hangs at 30 percent, giving pause to any plans that might involve a night under clear skies.
Looking ahead, Monday also poses a threat for severe weather, with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Despite the storm risk, temperatures will hover around a pleasant 84°F under mostly sunny conditions. "Some of the storms could be severe," the NWS cautions once again, reminding residents of the volatile nature of spring weather in the region. As the day transitions to night, the chances for showers and thunderstorms drop to 30 percent before 1 a.m., tapering off as winds shift from the south to the west.
The rest of the week seems to promise a respite from the sporadic tempests, with sunny skies and highs near 80°F on Tuesday and a continuation of the clear weather on Wednesday. Temperatures will dip slightly on Thursday, with a high near 76°F and a recurring chance for showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. that night. The NWS suggests a 30 percent chance of rain on both Friday and Friday night, ending the week on an uncertain note as skies remain mostly sunny yet unpredictably peppered with potential storms.
