Tulsa weather is a fickle beast. One minute you’re walking through the Gathering Place in a light hoodie, and the next, you’re digging for that heavy parka buried in the hall closet. Honestly, if you've lived here long enough, you know the drill. But this upcoming stretch? It’s got some specific quirks that might catch you off guard if you aren't looking closely at the 5 day weather forecast Tulsa OK.
We are currently sitting in that mid-January pocket where the sun tries to lie to you. It looks warm through the window, but the air has a bite. Right now, it’s a crisp 47°F outside. The wind is coming from the west at a gentle 6 mph, which isn't too bad, but don't let the sunny skies fool you into thinking winter is over.
The Immediate Outlook: Sunday and MLK Day
Today, Sunday, January 18, we’re topping out at 48°F. It’s basically the "last hurrah" of decent afternoon temperatures before a brief cold snap hits. Tonight is where things get interesting—and by interesting, I mean cold. We’re looking at a low of 15°F. That is a massive drop. If you have sensitive plants or haven't dripped your faucets yet, tonight is the night to be proactive.
Monday, January 19, which is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, is going to feel significantly different. The high is only hitting 32°F.
Yeah, freezing.
It’ll be cloudy with a 20% chance of snow during the day. It’s not looking like a "snow day" event that shuts down I-44, but it’ll be gray and biting with a 12 mph northeast wind.
Tuesday and Wednesday: The Bounce Back
If you hate the cold, just wait twenty-four hours. Tulsa is famous for its temperature swings, and Tuesday, January 20, proves it. We jump from that freezing Monday high back up to 53°F. It’ll be sunny again, though the overnight low stays chilly at 21°F.
Wednesday keeps that momentum going. We’re hitting 56°F, which is arguably the best day of the next five. It’s perfect for a mid-week walk or finally getting those errands done without shivering. The wind shifts to the northeast at 7 mph, making it feel quite pleasant under the sun.
Looking Toward Thursday
By Thursday, January 22, the clouds start creeping back in. We’re looking at 52°F for the high and partly sunny skies. There’s a slight 10% chance of snow during the day, increasing to 20% at night. Again, the precipitation chances are low, but the humidity is climbing toward 43%, so the air will feel a bit heavier than the dry start to the week.
Practical Steps for Tulsans This Week
Since we're dealing with a range from 15°F to 56°F, your wardrobe needs to be modular.
👉 See also: When Is Boss’s Day? The Weird History and Why We Still Mark Our Calendars
- Layers are your best friend: Monday requires a heavy coat, but Wednesday only needs a medium jacket.
- Check the pipes: That 15°F low tonight (Sunday) is the biggest risk factor for local homeowners.
- Tire Pressure: These 40-degree swings are notorious for triggering those annoying low-pressure sensors in your car. Check them Monday morning when it's coldest.
Basically, enjoy the sun while it's here, survive the gray chill of Monday, and look forward to a much milder Tuesday and Wednesday. This is typical Oklahoma winter—annoying, unpredictable, but manageable if you're prepared.
Check your outdoor faucets and ensure your pets have a warm place to stay before the temperature craters to 15°F tonight.