Oklahoma City residents, brace yourselves for a temperamental weather pattern that's swinging from severe thunderstorms to sunny skies. Early this morning, the National Weather Service (NWS) in Oklahoma City reported thunderstorm light rain and breezy conditions, with the humidity high at 87% and the winds gusting at a robust 41 mph. As the day progresses, a chance of showers and thunderstorms remains, mainly before 10 a.m., transitioning to partly sunny with a high near 88 - watch out for those south winds, which could gust as high as 20 mph later on.
The NWS has also continued a flood watch until 10 AM CDT this morning covering multiple counties including Kingfisher, Lincoln, and Oklahoma, with excessive rainfall causing flooding risks in low-lying areas; these conditions, they warn, may lead to flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other flood-prone spots while later forecasts should be monitored and readiness for action should flooding occur, "Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations," says the NWS. On top of that, a flood advisory is in effect until 9:15 AM CDT due to heavy rain from thunderstorms already resulting in minor flooding in areas like southern Oklahoma City, and northern Norman, the radar indicated substantial precipitation, and Oklahomans will have to contend with additional rainfall which may aggravate the situation.
Looking ahead, Oklahomans can expect a dramatic shift as Juneteenth looks sunny with a high near 93 and heat indices cranking up to 98, caution is advised if you're planning outdoor festivities - hydration and shade will be key. The thermostat isn't expected to drop much in the following nights, with temperatures hovering around the mid-70s, whereas sunny days with highs in the mid-90s will carry through the weekend into early next week, ensuring summer in Oklahoma remains hot and bright.
Travelers and commuters should stay sharp during these shifting weather patterns and those living in flood-prone areas ought to keep an eye out for updates from the NWS, as conditions can rapidly evolve - "Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop," they have advised.
