It’s umbrella weather in Oklahoma, at least for a few days.
Meteorologists expect storms to move across Oklahoma and Texas as we close out the work week. These storms have the potential to reduce rainfall levels.
Most of Oklahoma is experiencing a small chance (at least 15%) of “excessive” rainfall that could require a flash flood warning.
Rain forecast Thursday night, Friday
The heaviest rainfall is expected to hit western and northern Oklahoma on Friday, but the area could see some strong to severe storms on Thursday evening.
The biggest concern with any of these storms would be large hail, but meteorologists plan to issue a flood warning at 6pm on Thursday that will last more than 24 hours.
However, when the storm passes on Thursday, it will continue to rain.
The National Weather Service in Norman said rainfall is expected in most places, with the heaviest rain showers expected to occur along and west of the State Highway 81 corridor. Highway 81 runs north to south through Enid, Kingfisher, El Reno and Duncan.
Wet soil prepared for flooding
Since last weekend, many locations in western Oklahoma have seen “notable” precipitation totals, the NWS said in a forecast discussion released Thursday.
This means that the soil in those areas is much less receptive to heavy rainfall runoff from the surface.
“The convergence of the above factors highlights a clear potential for flooding in the western forecast zones throughout the day on Friday. A flood watch will be in effect until 9 p.m. on Friday,” the NWS said.
All rain should clear from Oklahoma by sunrise Saturday, paving the way for seasonal and pleasant weather.
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKC Weather: Excessive rainfall forecast in Oklahoma on Friday
