Tulsa, Okla. – Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected to drench much of northeast Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas through Thursday afternoon, raising the risk of dangerous flash flooding for communities from Tulsa to Fayetteville. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Tulsa has issued a Flood Watch covering multiple counties as forecasters warn of significant rainfall totals and hazardous travel conditions.
Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Concerns
Showers and thunderstorms are forecast to become widespread late Wednesday night into Thursday morning, delivering 2 to 4 inches of rain to much of the region. Isolated areas could receive as much as 4 to 6 inches, an amount capable of causing flash flooding in low-lying neighborhoods, river valleys, and creek beds.
Rising water levels may also lead to dangerous conditions near small streams and along major rivers. Urban flooding is a concern, particularly in heavily paved areas where runoff accumulates quickly.
Areas Under Flood Watch
The Flood Watch remains in effect until Thursday afternoon for a broad swath of northeast Oklahoma, including:
- Tulsa, Rogers, Mayes, Delaware, Cherokee, Adair, Pawnee, and Wagoner counties.
In Arkansas, the watch includes:
- Benton, Washington, Madison, and Carroll counties.
The alert also stretches westward into central Oklahoma, where communities such as Stillwater, Perry, and Ponca City may experience flooding conditions through Thursday morning.
Safety Precautions and Community Guidance
Emergency management officials strongly urge residents to:
- Avoid driving on water-covered roads. Just a few inches of swift water can sweep away a vehicle.
- Keep phones and devices charged in case of power outages caused by storms.
- Prepare for quick evacuation by knowing higher ground locations and keeping essential supplies ready.
Local authorities stress the importance of not underestimating flood risks, as conditions can deteriorate rapidly during periods of heavy rain.
Looking Ahead
While storms are expected to gradually diminish Thursday afternoon, additional flood warnings may be issued as the system moves through and rainfall totals climb. The ground is already saturated in some locations, which could amplify runoff and extend flooding risks into the evening.
Northeast Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas face a serious threat of flooding through Thursday as a slow-moving storm system brings heavy rainfall to the region. With 2 to 6 inches of rain possible, residents are urged to remain vigilant, follow safety guidance, and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.
