Oklahoma’s Scorching August and Drought Crisis | Tulsa News

Oklahoma just endured its third hottest and fifth driest August on record, with 2023 already setting records for heat — over 100 days above 90 degrees — and the scorching temperatures lingering into late September. The heat index amplified the danger, while drought conditions grip more than 70% of the state, with 40% in exceptional drought. Wind gusts hit 27 mph, and historic temperature records were shattered, especially in the Panhandle, where wildfires raged across hundreds of thousands of acres. Looking ahead, forecasts predict hotter, drier conditions statewide, with warnings that without climate action, extreme weather and heavier downpours may become the norm as fall arrives. Even September, typically a reprieve, was the third driest in the Panhandle since records began, with just 0.19 inches of rain — 0.31 inches below average. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/3478f17059d43ab9