Severe Heat and Elevated Fire Risks Expected Across Oklahoma and North Texas 8/21

Photo byNational Weather Service

Dangerous Heat and Thunderstorms Pose Significant Risks Across the Region

NORMAN — Issued by the National Weather Service at 3:04 AM CDT on Wednesday, August 21, 2024.

A Hazardous Weather Outlook has been issued for much of northern, western, central, and southern Oklahoma, as well as western north Texas. The National Weather Service (NWS) warns of dangerous heat, thunderstorm risks, and elevated fire weather conditions over the next several days.

Thunderstorms and Heat Expected Wednesday

Thunderstorms:

Thunderstorms are possible across portions of north central and east central Oklahoma this morning. While severe storms are not expected at this time, residents are advised to stay alert to the possibility of localized heavy rainfall and lightning.

Heat Advisory:

The NWS also predicts dangerous heat across southwestern Oklahoma and western north Texas this afternoon. Temperatures could soar above 100°F, with heat index values climbing even higher, creating dangerous conditions for those spending extended periods outdoors.

Fire Weather Concerns:

Elevated fire weather conditions are expected in western north Texas this afternoon due to the combination of hot temperatures, low humidity, and gusty winds.

Key Regions Affected on Wednesday:

• Thunderstorm Risk: North central and east central Oklahoma
• Heat Risk: Southwestern Oklahoma and western north Texas
• Fire Weather Risk: Western north Texas

Persistent Heat and Fire Risks Through the Week

The dangerous heat will continue through Thursday and Friday, affecting southwest Oklahoma and western north Texas. By Friday and Saturday, the extreme heat is expected to expand over much of Oklahoma, pushing temperatures higher and increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Additionally, elevated fire weather conditions will remain a concern through Thursday and Friday, particularly in western Oklahoma and western north Texas during the afternoon hours. The risk of wildfire spread will be heightened in areas with dry vegetation.

Extended Forecast Overview:

• Dangerous Heat: Southwest Oklahoma and western north Texas today, expanding into central Oklahoma by Friday.
• Fire Weather Concerns: Western Oklahoma and western north Texas on Thursday and Friday.

Precautionary Measures for Residents

Residents across the affected regions should take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses by staying hydrated and limiting time outdoors during peak heat hours. In areas with elevated fire risks, avoid any activities that could potentially spark fires, such as discarding cigarettes or using open flames outdoors.

Spotter Activation

Spotter activation is not expected at this time. However, weather spotters are encouraged to monitor conditions closely and report any significant developments, particularly related to fire weather risks and severe heat.

Seek Out Updates

Weather Watches, Warnings & Advisories are frequently updated. Please look for updates to this report from the National Weather Service, or your local news channels and NOAA All Hazards. Please follow Thumbwind Publications for more local weather and news updates.