A Tornado Watch has been issued for portions of Central and Eastern Oklahoma by the NWS Storm Prediction Center. The watch is effective this Tuesday afternoon and evening from 5:40 PM until 10:00 PM CDT. The primary threats include the possibility of a few tornadoes, scattered damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph, and scattered large hail with isolated very large hail events up to 2 inches in diameter.
The cluster of supercell thunderstorms across central Oklahoma is expected to track northeastward across the watch area in the next few hours. Localized wind fields have become favorable for a risk of a few tornadoes, along with damaging winds and large hail. The tornado watch area spans approximately 40 statute miles east and west of a line from 35 miles southwest of Ardmore, OK, to 25 miles east of Tulsa, OK.
Residents in the watch area are advised to stay alert for threatening weather conditions and listen for further statements and possible warnings. Aviation interests should also be cautious, as tornadoes and severe thunderstorms with hail are possible, along with extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts.
It is crucial for individuals in the affected areas to take necessary precautions and stay informed about the evolving weather situation. Tornado watches indicate that conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, so vigilance is key during this time.
Stay tuned to local weather updates and heed any warnings issued by authorities to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones.
References:
– SPC Tornado/Severe Thunderstorm Watches. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/watch/ww0363.html
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