Tulsa, Oklahoma — A stormy start to the day is slowing travel across eastern Oklahoma as showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds move through the Tulsa area, before a noticeable winter cooldown settles in for the weekend. Forecasters say the active weather will be short-lived, but changing conditions could create hazards for commuters and early-morning drivers.
According to the National Weather Service Tulsa, scattered showers and thunderstorms are increasing through the morning and early afternoon, with lightning and brief heavy rain posing the main threats.
Storms impact morning and midday travel
Storms developing early Thursday are affecting large portions of eastern Oklahoma, including Tulsa and nearby communities. While widespread severe weather is not expected, isolated stronger storms cannot be ruled out, particularly during peak travel hours.
Forecasters warn that:
- Lightning is the primary hazard
- Brief heavy downpours could reduce visibility
- Wind gusts near 30 mph may occur with stronger cells
Wet pavement and sudden rain bursts may slow traffic along I-44, U.S. 75, and major city arterials, especially where storms pass repeatedly over the same areas.
“Even non-severe storms can create dangerous driving conditions,” meteorologists cautioned, urging drivers to slow down and allow extra stopping distance.
Residents are advised to avoid outdoor activities when thunder is heard and to secure loose outdoor items as winds increase.
January warmth fuels storm energy
Despite the unsettled weather, temperatures are climbing well above normal for mid-January. Highs are expected to reach the low 70s, adding energy to the atmosphere and helping storms develop.
While the warmth may feel more like spring than winter, forecasters note that it will be short-lived.
“The warmth is enough to support thunderstorms, but the overall setup does not favor widespread severe weather,” officials said.
Read Also: Weather Update: Juneau’s Record Snow Crisis Worsens With Rain on the Way
This unusual January warmth has been a recurring theme across parts of the Southern Plains so far in 2026, but changes are already on the way.
Conditions improve later today
Storm activity is expected to taper later Thursday, with clouds gradually thinning into the evening hours. As the system moves east, cooler and drier air will begin filtering into eastern Oklahoma overnight.
By Friday, skies turn mostly sunny, but temperatures take a noticeable step down.
Highs on Friday are forecast to reach the low 50s, with northwest winds adding a crisp feel to the air and signaling winter’s return.
Weekend brings colder mornings, black ice risk
The cooldown continues into the weekend as colder air settles firmly over the region.
Saturday is expected to be sunny but brisk, with daytime highs in the upper 40s. Overnight lows drop into the upper 20s, cold enough to refreeze leftover moisture from Thursday’s rain.
Drivers should watch for patchy black ice, especially:
- On bridges and overpasses
- Along shaded roads
- In areas that remain damp after sunset
Sunday remains dry and cold, with highs in the low 40s and frosty morning conditions.
Looking ahead to next week
Early next week starts cold, with frosty mornings continuing Monday. Afternoon temperatures gradually moderate, returning closer to seasonal levels as sunshine persists.
Meteorologists say they will continue monitoring wind and storm potential through the day, and additional advisories could be issued if storms become stronger than expected.
Five-day outlook for Tulsa
Here’s a look at what to expect through early next week:
- Today: Showers and thunderstorms; gusty winds; high near 72
- Friday: Mostly sunny and cooler; high near 52
- Saturday: Sunny, brisk; high near 49
- Sunday: Sunny and cold; high near 43
- Monday: Sunny with a cold morning; high near 58
Stay weather-aware
Officials recommend staying alert to rapidly changing conditions, especially during morning travel hours. Keep weather alerts enabled, drive cautiously on wet roads, and be prepared for icy spots after sunset later this week.
How are conditions where you are in and around Tulsa today? Share what you’re seeing on the roads and skies in the comments below.
