A stationary front has been the focus for storm activity and heavy rainfall throughout the day today in Oklahoma. The heaviest amounts have been tallied in a band across southern portions of the state. One station has recorded more than 13 inches (330 mm) so far, close to the state record for most rainfall in 24 hours!
Remnants of a tropical depression that was in the Gulf of California a few days ago have drifted slowly into the southern Plains. The combination of tropical moisture and a slow-moving upper low have prompted the heavy rains (see map above for totals). The Fittstown observation has recorded the heaviest amount so far, 13.26 inches (337 mm) as of mid-evening. These rains have overwhelmed the local drainage system, putting the entire town of Ada, population 17,000+, underwater. Officials have urged residents to avoid attempts to travel unless absolutely necessary through tonight. The picturesque Turner Falls, normally a sunny swimming spot, have become a raging torrent (see bottom tweet). Fortunately, the heavy rain bands will gradually diminish over the region tonight. Lead photo courtesy Marvin Naumann with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
HAPPENING NOW – Flash Flood Warnings continue across Oklahoma through the afternoon with rain reports from today nearing a foot in some spots. Please heed all warnings! #okwx @NWSNorman pic.twitter.com/gAQKf63JPi
— WeatherNation (@WeatherNation) September 21, 2018
Anyone ever been to Turner Falls in Oklahoma? Well we are getting hammered with rain…here is the before and after: pic.twitter.com/MJwVH7ETNC
— Air Force Razorback (@AustinWakeham) September 21, 2018