Oklahoma Weather by Month
Oklahoma, located in the South Central region of the United States, is bordered by Kansas to the north, Missouri to the northeast, Arkansas to the east, Texas to the south, New Mexico to the west, and Colorado to the northwest. It became the 46th state on November 16, 1907. Oklahoma’s history is deeply rooted in Native American culture, particularly the Cherokee, Choctaw, and Chickasaw tribes who were forcibly relocated to the region during the Trail of Tears. The state’s land runs, oil booms, and the Dust Bowl era have shaped its identity. Major cities include Oklahoma City (the capital and largest city), Tulsa, Norman, Broken Arrow, and Lawton. Iconic landmarks encompass the Oklahoma City National Memorial, honoring the victims of the 1995 bombing, the Route 66 Museum in Clinton, the Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa, and the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve. Oklahoma’s economy is diverse, with key sectors including energy, agriculture, aerospace, and biotechnology, contributing significantly to its growth and development.
Weather Overview:
Oklahoma experiences a humid subtropical climate in the eastern part of the state and a semi-arid climate in the western regions, with hot summers and mild winters. Weather patterns are influenced by its location in Tornado Alley, resulting in frequent severe weather events.
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Average Precipitation (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 39.2 | 1.20 |
| February | 43.8 | 1.61 |
| March | 52.8 | 2.71 |
| April | 61.8 | 3.10 |
| May | 70.9 | 5.33 |
| June | 79.3 | 4.79 |
| July | 83.9 | 2.64 |
| August | 83.3 | 2.82 |
| September | 75.4 | 3.41 |
| October | 64.0 | 3.19 |
| November | 51.9 | 2.10 |
| December | 42.0 | 1.73 |
January
January in Oklahoma marks the peak of winter, with generally cold temperatures prevailing across the state. Average temperatures range from around 30°F (-1°C) in the northern parts of the state to the mid-40s°F (7°C) in the south. While snow is possible, especially in the northern regions, it is relatively rare compared to states further north. Instead, January often brings crisp, clear days and occasional periods of freezing rain. Despite the cold weather, January can be a good time to visit Oklahoma for travelers interested in exploring indoor attractions such as museums, art galleries, and cultural events. However, outdoor activities may be limited due to the winter conditions.
February
February in Oklahoma continues to be cold, but temperatures gradually begin to rise as the month progresses. Average temperatures range from the low 30s°F (-1°C) in the north to the upper 40s°F (9°C) in the south. While snowfall is still possible, it becomes less frequent as winter transitions into early spring. February can be a quiet time to visit Oklahoma, offering opportunities for peaceful retreats and cultural experiences without the crowds often seen during peak tourist seasons. Travelers visiting Oklahoma in February can explore indoor attractions, enjoy cozy cafes and restaurants, and experience the state’s unique charm without the summer heat.
March
March heralds the arrival of spring in Oklahoma, with milder temperatures and blooming vegetation throughout the state. Average temperatures range from the mid-40s°F (7°C) in the north to the low 60s°F (16°C) in the south. While March can bring occasional cold snaps and frost, especially in the early part of the month, overall conditions become more favorable for outdoor activities. Spring blooms begin to emerge, with parks, gardens, and nature reserves coming to life with colorful flowers and blossoming trees. March also marks the beginning of tornado season in Oklahoma, with the potential for severe weather events such as thunderstorms and tornadoes. Travelers visiting Oklahoma in March should stay informed about weather forecasts and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
April
April is a delightful time to visit Oklahoma, with mild temperatures and the peak of springtime blooms. Average temperatures range from the low 50s°F (10°C) in the north to the upper 60s°F (20°C) in the south. The landscape bursts into color as wildflowers, flowering trees, and blooming shrubs adorn the countryside. April also brings an increased risk of severe weather, including thunderstorms, hail, and tornadoes. Travelers visiting Oklahoma in April can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing, but should remain vigilant and heed any weather warnings. Despite the potential for storms, April offers a beautiful backdrop for exploring Oklahoma’s natural beauty and outdoor attractions.
May
May is one of the best times to visit Oklahoma, with warm temperatures and an abundance of outdoor activities and events. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s°F (18°C) in the north to the low 80s°F (27°C) in the south. Spring blooms continue to flourish, and the landscape becomes lush and green. May also marks the peak of tornado season in Oklahoma, with an increased risk of severe weather, including tornadoes, thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall. Despite the potential for storms, May offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. Travelers visiting Oklahoma in May can also attend festivals, fairs, and cultural events celebrating the arrival of spring.
June
June brings the onset of summer in Oklahoma, with hot temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Average temperatures range from the mid-70s°F (24°C) in the north to the low 90s°F (32°C) in the south. While June is generally a warm and dry month, it also marks the peak of severe weather season in Oklahoma, with the potential for thunderstorms, hail, and tornadoes. Despite the risk of storms, June offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as swimming, kayaking, and tubing on Oklahoma’s lakes and rivers. June also marks the beginning of festival season in Oklahoma, with events celebrating everything from music and food to arts and culture. Travelers visiting Oklahoma in June can experience the joys of summer, from outdoor adventures to lively festivities, but should remain vigilant and prepared for changing weather conditions.
July
July is typically the hottest month of the year in Oklahoma, with scorching temperatures and high humidity levels. Average temperatures range from the mid-70s°F (24°C) in the north to the mid-90s°F (35°C) in the south. Despite the heat, July offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, with many lakes, rivers, and parks providing relief from the summer sun. July also brings the potential for severe weather, including thunderstorms, hail, and high winds. Travelers visiting Oklahoma in July can enjoy swimming, boating, and other water activities, as well as attending summer festivals and events. However, it’s essential to stay hydrated, seek shade, and be prepared for extreme heat and sudden storms.
August
August continues the hot and humid conditions of summer in Oklahoma, with temperatures remaining high throughout the month. Average temperatures range from the mid-70s°F (24°C) in the north to the mid-90s°F (35°C) in the south. While August is generally a dry month, occasional thunderstorms can bring relief from the summer heat. Outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and camping are still popular, although travelers should take precautions to stay cool and hydrated in the heat. August also offers opportunities for attending fairs, festivals, and other summer events across the state. Travelers visiting Oklahoma in August can embrace the summer spirit and enjoy the abundance of outdoor recreation and cultural experiences the state has to offer.
September
September marks the transition from summer to fall in Oklahoma, with gradually cooling temperatures and changing foliage. Average temperatures range from the mid-70s°F (24°C) in the north to the low 90s°F (32°C) in the south. While early September may still feel like summer, especially in the southern regions, cooler weather begins to prevail towards the end of the month. September is an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and scenic drives, as the landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of autumn colors. Fall festivals and events also abound in Oklahoma during September, offering opportunities to celebrate the harvest season and local culture. Travelers visiting Oklahoma in September can experience the beauty of late summer and early fall, enjoying mild weather and picturesque landscapes before the onset of winter.
October
October is synonymous with fall foliage in Oklahoma, as the leaves change colors and the landscape transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s°F (18°C) in the north to the low 80s°F (27°C) in the south. Cool, crisp days and clear skies make October perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, apple picking, and visiting pumpkin patches. Fall festivals and events continue throughout the month, offering opportunities to celebrate the season with hayrides, corn mazes, and other autumnal delights. Travelers visiting Oklahoma in October can immerse themselves in the beauty of fall, exploring scenic drives and hiking trails adorned with vibrant foliage.
November
November marks the transition to winter in Oklahoma, with cooling temperatures and occasional frost towards the end of the month. Average temperatures range from the mid-50s°F (13°C) in the north to the low 70s°F (21°C) in the south. While early November may still feel like fall, with lingering foliage and mild weather, colder conditions become more prevalent as the month progresses. November is a time of transition, with outdoor activities giving way to indoor pursuits such as holiday shopping and cultural events. Travelers visiting Oklahoma in November can experience the changing seasons, from the last traces of fall to the first hints of winter, making it an ideal time for cozy getaways and exploring indoor attractions.
December
December brings winter weather to Oklahoma, with cold temperatures and the potential for snowfall across the state. Average temperatures range from the low 40s°F (5°C) in the north to the mid-50s°F (13°C) in the south. While snow is relatively rare in many parts of the state, it can occur, especially in the northern regions. December also brings festive holiday celebrations and events, offering opportunities to experience the magic of the season. Outdoor activities such as ice skating and holiday light displays are popular, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages. December can be a cozy and enchanting time to visit Oklahoma, with the promise of winter festivities and seasonal cheer.
