Severe Weather Predicted in Oklahoma This Weekend

OKLAHOMA CITY – A major storm system is set to affect Oklahoma this weekend, with severe weather including possible tornadoes, large hail, and high winds expected across the state.

Forecasters warn that the severe weather could begin as early as Saturday afternoon, May 18, 2025, particularly in the southeast region of the state. Damaging storms have been confirmed in the Midwest over the past 24 hours, with fatalities recorded in Missouri and Kentucky.

The National Weather Service has issued various warnings and watches for different counties, predicting that during the severe weather event, tornadoes, baseball-sized hail, and winds up to 60 mph may occur. A significant threat exists for central and eastern Oklahoma.

According to meteorologist Joseph Neubauer, a warm front is responsible for this upcoming weather change. He explained that storms could start forming around 2 p.m. Saturday, intensifying throughout the day and evening. Heaters indicated a tornado index of 2 out of 10 for most of Oklahoma, which may rise to 4-5 in specific regions such as Ponca City and Bartlesville.

Conditions are expected to worsen on Sunday, with an enhanced risk for severe weather along I-35. Neubauer stated that storms will likely begin developing again in the late afternoon, specifically along I-35 in central and western Oklahoma.

These storms carry a higher risk for tornadoes and damaging winds as they move through the state, particularly affecting Oklahoma City, Enid, and Tulsa.

The National Weather Service has advised residents to stay upfront and prepare for multiple rounds of storms. The News 9 Weather App can be a vital resource for those needing real-time alerts and radar information.

On Monday, another storm system is forecast to impact the region. Meteorologists say this period will be critical for Oklahomans, as conditions will create favorable situations for severe storms through the weekend into Monday.