Extreme, Unprecedented Heat Wave To Keep Oklahoma Scorching Through At Least The Fourth Of July

Summer came in swinging, and this extreme heat wave in Oklahoma is expected to last at least through the fourth of July. This is a popular weekend for spending time outdoors and grilling, and if you’re going to be out and about in these temperatures, you need to be taking some precautions. Here’s what you need to know:

Oklahoma and its surrounding neighbors have been getting pounded with deadly storms and record-breaking temperatures recently.

The heat wave stretches from New Mexico all the way to the Florida Panhandle, affecting over 45 million people. These states have all been put on heat warnings and advisories this week as the temperatures just keep climbing.

Electrical grids are struggling to keep up with the demand, and the insane storms aren’t helping, either.

Tornadoes across Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma have all caused widespread damages and power outages in the last week, especially across the Rolling Plains.

The National Weather Service expects temperatures to reach triple digits on Wednesday, June 28.

Meteorologists are expecting temperatures of 103-110 degrees Fahrenheit for southern Oklahoma. Northern Oklahoma won’t necessarily hit triple digits, but make no mistake, it’ll get close.

When the temperatures are this intense, it can be very dangerous.

Everyone is at risk here, but kids, pets, and the elderly are the most at risk for heat stroke or heat exhaustion. When you’re outside for long durations, it can be hard to get your body temperature back down to a reasonable level.

Obviously, you’ll want to stay hydrated.

Water, water, water. And electrolytes.

Pay attention to your pets, too. Especially when you take them on walks.

The pavement can get far too hot for your pets to walk on, and it can burn their little paws. Keep them in the grass and shade as much as possible, and keep some extra water nearby for them.

The Fourth of July is typically a weekend spent outdoors, and if you're planning on a backyard cookout, make sure you keep cool.

By whatever means possible!

OG&E has a comprehensive list of cooling centers in Oklahoma that will be open this weekend. Stay safe out there, folks.