August in Oklahoma is typically synonymous with sweltering heat, but the state is currently experiencing a wild and unseasonal weather pattern. According to State Climatologist Gary McManus, A powerful cold front has brought a dramatic drop in temperatures, heavy rain, and even record-breaking wind gusts, creating an unusual mix of conditions.
McManus says the surprising weather event has led to a peculiar situation with high temperatures. While some areas were forecast to see highs in the 70s, many of those temperatures were actually reached in the early morning before the cold front arrived. The current temperature map, therefore, functions more like a low-temperature map, as temperatures are continuing to fall throughout the day.
This technicality may prevent some areas from officially breaking record-low maximum temperatures, but in spirit, many residents are “feeling” record-low maximums during their waking hours. This dramatic shift is being described as “crazier than heck,” especially following the recent, severe weather, which included wind gusts of up to 99 mph and 85 mph measured at the Camargo site.
The unexpected and much-needed rainfall, after a prolonged period of dry conditions, has brought a new challenge: flash flooding. However, this relief from the recent dry spell is a welcome change. The rollercoaster weather is set to continue, with forecasts showing a return to more seasonal temperatures later in the week, but on a smaller scale than the state is used to.
As the weather shifts, McManus reminds everyone that the importance of being prepared for wildfires is underscored. In conjunction with the Oklahoma Mesonet, the OK-FIRE program is hosting a series of free workshops for the fall of 2025. Led by Dr. Monica Mattox and other guest speakers, these workshops are designed to educate a wide range of individuals on fire management and safety.
The workshops are geared toward landowners, wildland managers, firefighters, prescribed burn associations, and public safety officials. Participants will learn about the OK-FIRE website, components of fire danger, and various forecast and monitoring products. The content will also include real-life emergency management scenarios and hands-on exercises related to prescribed burning.
OK-FIRE Fall 2025 Workshops:
- Lawton: Monday, October 20, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Bartlesville: Tuesday, November 4, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Virtual: Monday, December 15 – Tuesday, December 16, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Registration for these free workshops is open and can be completed by visiting mesonet.org/news/ok-fire-fall-2025-workshops. You can scan the QR code below to get signed up.
