Oklahoma City is starting Thursday on a calm note at Will Rogers World Airport (KOKC), with mostly clear skies, temperatures near 66F, and a south-southeast breeze. By this afternoon, things heat up, with a high near 88F and partly to mostly sunny skies as south winds ramp up. Most of the metro should stay dry, but isolated to scattered storms could pop up late in the afternoon and into the evening commute.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
South winds are expected to run about 8-13 mph today, with afternoon gusts reaching up to 20 mph and tonight’s breeze potentially gusting near 21 mph. According to the National Weather Service in Norman, those gusts are possible across the metro. High-profile vehicles should watch for crosswinds, and cyclists and outdoor workers will want to factor in the extra breeze.
Weekend Storm Threat And Flooding Risk
Storm chances climb Friday night and especially Saturday as a trough edges closer, bringing showers and thunderstorms that are likely Saturday and may linger into Sunday, with roughly a 60-70% chance during peak periods. Our earlier look at sticky skies, slick streets noted that heavier cells could trigger localized flooding, and forecasters are still pegging heavy rain as the main concern. If storms slow down or train over the same neighborhoods, brief flash flooding and flooded underpasses are the big trouble spots to watch.
Practical Tips
Plan on a breezy drive home and keep a light rain layer within reach for afternoon errands or outdoor events. Steer clear of driving through standing water, ease off the gas in heavy downpours, and give road crews extra space if you come across stalled vehicles. Stay tuned to local forecasts and alerts; brief, intense downpours can flare up with very little warning this time of year.
