Hazardous Weather Outlook: Heat and Air Quality Alerts for Oklahoma and North Texas 8/8

Photo byNational Weather Service

Severe Heat and Air Quality Concerns Issued by NWS Norman, OK

The National Weather Service in Norman, OK, has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for northern, western, central, and southern Oklahoma, as well as western north Texas. Residents in these areas should prepare for high heat indices and monitor air quality alerts.

Weather Conditions and Potential Impacts

Tonight:

• Air Quality Alert: An Air Quality Alert is in effect until 9 PM for the Oklahoma City Metropolitan area due to high concentrations of ozone. Residents, especially those with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activities.
• Thunderstorms: There is a slight chance of thunderstorms after midnight across far northern Oklahoma. Severe weather is unlikely.

Thursday through Tuesday:

• Heat: Heat index values are expected to climb between 105 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit across central and southern Oklahoma and north Texas on Thursday afternoon. Residents should take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.
• Thunderstorms: There will be a chance for thunderstorms each day from Thursday through Tuesday, with the highest chances generally in the morning hours and across northern Oklahoma.

Areas Under Watch

The Hazardous Weather Outlook covers the following regions:

• Oklahoma: Harper, Woods, Alfalfa, Grant, Kay, Ellis, Woodward, Major, Garfield, Noble, Roger Mills, Dewey, Custer, Blaine, Kingfisher, Logan, Payne, Beckham, Washita, Caddo, Canadian, Oklahoma, Lincoln, Grady, McClain, Cleveland, Pottawatomie, Seminole, Hughes, Harmon, Greer, Kiowa, Jackson, Tillman, Comanche, Stephens, Garvin, Murray, Pontotoc, Coal, Cotton, Jefferson, Carter, Johnston, Atoka, Love, Marshall, Bryan.
• Texas: Hardeman, Foard, Wilbarger, Wichita, Knox, Baylor, Archer, Clay.

Safety Precautions and Preparedness Actions

Residents should take the following precautions:

• Monitor Air Quality: Stay informed about air quality levels and limit outdoor activities, especially if you have respiratory conditions. More information is available at AirNow.gov.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.
• Seek Shade or Air Conditioning: Stay in shaded or air-conditioned areas whenever possible.
• Monitor Weather Updates: Stay informed with the latest weather forecasts and updates from the National Weather Service and local news.

Community Support and Resources

• Local Authorities: Follow the advice and instructions of local emergency services and health officials.
• Heat Safety Information: Additional details and safety tips can be found at the National Weather Service’s heat safety website: https://www.weather.gov/safety/heat.
• Social Media Updates: Follow the NWS Norman on Twitter and Facebook for real-time updates.

Spotter Information

Spotter activation is not anticipated tonight.

Stay alert and prepared to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you during this hazardous weather period.