Memorial Day in Oklahoma brings a mix of warm sunshine and a good chance for storms. Daytime highs usually land in the 80s or low 90s, with humid air and a real possibility of thunderstorms. You might see anything from quick showers to severe weather, so planning gets tricky compared to other times of year.
Weather feels different depending on where you are in the state. Eastern Oklahoma often gets more rain, while western parts run hotter and drier, but storms can still pop up out of nowhere. If you’re planning time outdoors, knowing what to expect is pretty important.
The holiday weekend falls right in the middle of Oklahoma’s peak severe weather season. You’ll want to keep an eye on changing forecasts. Some years bring only scattered rain, but others have hail, strong winds, or even tornadoes. Understanding these patterns helps you plan safer, more enjoyable activities.
Typical Weather Patterns on Memorial Day
Memorial Day in Oklahoma usually means warm afternoons, the chance for rain, and sticky air. Spring-like instability sticks around, with temps rising toward summer and thunderstorms especially likely in the eastern half.
Average Temperatures in Late May
Late May feels warm but not overly hot most years. Average highs hit the upper 70s to low 80s°F (25–28°C) for much of the state.
Out west, highs sometimes reach the mid-80s, while the east can see cooler mornings dipping into the upper 50s.
You’ll notice wide daily swings. Mornings start off mild, but things heat up fast as the day goes on.
At night, lows usually fall between 55°F and 65°F (13–18°C), which makes evenings great for outdoor plans.
Temperature records show Memorial Day has gotten a bit warmer in recent decades. Extreme heat is rare, but central and southern Oklahoma sometimes see readings near 90°F if high pressure builds in.
Rainfall and Precipitation Trends
Rainfall around Memorial Day in Oklahoma varies a lot. Gulf moisture meets dry western air, and that clash often brings scattered showers and thunderstorms, especially in the eastern and southern parts.
Historical data shows measurable rain on about 35–40% of Memorial Days. Some storms dump heavy rain, which can trigger flash flooding. Hail and strong winds are also possible this time of year.
Western Oklahoma stays drier, but isolated storms still show up. If you’re planning outdoor activities, keep an eye on the forecast and have a backup plan in case of rain.
Humidity Levels During Memorial Day
Humidity rises in late May as warm, moist air moves up from the Gulf. Afternoon relative humidity usually runs 50–70% in most of Oklahoma, with higher numbers in the east.
The combo of warmth and humidity can make it feel muggy, especially after storms roll through. Lingering moisture keeps the air damp and sticky.
In the west, humidity often drops below 40% by afternoon. That’s why the east feels more tropical, while the west stays drier and a bit more comfortable.
Sunshine and Cloud Cover
Cloud cover changes a lot, depending on storm activity. On many Memorial Days, you’ll get partly cloudy skies and stretches of sunshine, with cumulus clouds popping up.
When storms move through, skies turn mostly cloudy, especially in the east. Still, central and western Oklahoma often enjoy long spells of dry weather and clear skies.
On average, expect 5–8 hours of sunshine during the holiday. You can usually make outdoor plans, but watch for sudden changes if storms start building in the afternoon.
Regional Weather Differences in Oklahoma
Memorial Day weather shifts a lot across Oklahoma. Geography, elevation, and how close you are to moisture sources all play a role. Temps, rainfall, and storm chances can look pretty different depending on your location.
Weather in Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City in late May brings warm afternoons and mild evenings. Highs often run from the upper 70s to mid-80s °F, with lows in the 60s.
Humidity jumps up quickly after rain, making the air feel heavier.
Thunderstorms pop up a lot during this stretch. May is one of the wettest months, and storms sometimes develop with little warning. Tornado risk isn’t constant but still lingers, so it’s smart to check forecasts before heading outside.
Rain can hit hard and fast, flooding streets during downpours. Parks, lakes, and outdoor events draw crowds on Memorial Day weekend, but you might need to adjust plans if storms move in.
Eastern vs. Western Oklahoma Conditions
Eastern Oklahoma usually feels wetter and more humid. Around Memorial Day, cities like Tulsa or Durant see more frequent thunderstorms and higher rainfall. Afternoon highs stick to the low to mid-80s °F, and evenings often feel muggy in the 60s.
Western Oklahoma, on the other hand, is drier and hotter. Highs often push into the upper 80s or low 90s °F, with overnight lows in the 60s. Rain is less common, but storms, when they show up, can be intense with strong winds and hail.
This east-west difference comes from Oklahoma’s geography. Moist Gulf air shapes the east, while the west sits closer to the dry High Plains.
Panhandle and Southern Oklahoma Variations
The Oklahoma Panhandle has a more semi-arid feel. Memorial Day temps often climb into the upper 80s or 90s °F, with cool nights in the 50s. Fewer storms roll through than in the center or east, but wind and dust stand out more on the open landscape.
Southern Oklahoma, near the Red River, gets warmer and more humid. Highs in the low 90s °F are common, and humidity can make it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms tend to build in the afternoons, and rainfall usually runs heavier here than in the Panhandle.
So, your Memorial Day weather in Oklahoma really depends on where you go.
Severe Weather Risks and Safety
Late May in Oklahoma brings unsettled weather. You’ll run into frequent thunderstorms, heavy rain, and sometimes hail or tornadoes. Staying alert to forecasts and having a safety plan helps you enjoy the holiday weekend with fewer surprises.
Thunderstorms and Rain Showers
Thunderstorms show up a lot in Oklahoma around Memorial Day. Warm, humid Gulf air collides with cooler Plains air, creating unstable conditions. That clash sparks rounds of showers and storms, sometimes lasting a few days.
Storms often build in the afternoon and roll into the evening. Heavy rain can cause flash flooding, especially in low spots and near rivers. Travel delays might happen on busy highways and at outdoor events.
To stay safe, you can:
- Check local forecasts before driving or planning outdoor fun.
- Avoid flooded roads, even if the water looks shallow.
- Have a backup plan in case storms interrupt lake trips or camping.
Thunderstorms in late May aren’t rare, but a little preparation goes a long way.
Hail and Tornado Possibilities
Some Oklahoma storms this time of year bring hail and tornadoes. Severe hail can damage cars, roofs, and crops—sometimes the stones get bigger than golf balls. Tornadoes don’t happen every year, but central and western Oklahoma always carry a real risk.
The Storm Prediction Center often puts parts of Oklahoma under “slight” or “enhanced” risk during Memorial Day weekend. That means a higher shot at rotating storms that can bring strong winds and tornadoes.
Know where the nearest shelter is, whether you’re at home, in a hotel, or camping. Keep a weather radio or a trusted alert app handy. If you’re out driving, scout out sturdy buildings where you can take cover fast.
By understanding hail and tornado threats, you can make smarter choices about when and where to travel during the holiday.
Historical Weather Data for Memorial Day
Memorial Day in Oklahoma usually brings warm afternoons and a shot at storms. Temps can swing from mild mornings to hot afternoons, and rainfall ranges from light showers to heavy downpours some years.
Temperature Records
On Memorial Day, average high temperatures in Oklahoma City usually land in the low to mid-80s °F. Lows often sit in the lower 60s °F, so mornings start cool before warming up fast.
Records show plenty of variation. The warmest Memorial Day in Oklahoma City hit the mid-90s °F, while the coolest highs stayed in the 60s °F. Overnight lows have even dipped into the mid-40s °F during rare cold snaps.
Here’s a quick look at late-May averages and extremes:
| Location | Avg High | Avg Low | Record High | Record Low |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma City | 83°F | 62°F | 96°F | 46°F |
| Tulsa | 84°F | 63°F | 97°F | 48°F |
So, pack for warm afternoons, but don’t rule out an occasional cool spell.
Precipitation Extremes
Late May ranks among the wettest times of year in Oklahoma. On Memorial Day, you might get anything from dry skies to heavy thunderstorms. Average rainfall in Oklahoma City for late May is about 4.6 inches for the month, with several days bringing measurable rain.
Some Memorial Days stay totally dry, while others see storms dump over two inches of rain in a day. Hail and strong winds show up now and then too.
Rainfall records highlight the swings:
- Wettest Memorial Day in Oklahoma City: over 2 inches of rain.
- Driest Memorial Days: no measurable precipitation.
Conditions can change fast, so if you’re outside, keep an eye on the sky. Afternoon storms can pop up, but mornings are usually calmer and drier.
Planning Outdoor Activities Around Memorial Day
Late May in Oklahoma usually means warm afternoons, mild mornings, and a chance for sudden storms. Outdoor events, lake trips, and festivals are all doable if you prep for quick weather changes and plan your routes carefully.
Weather Forecasts and Preparation
Temperatures around Memorial Day in Oklahoma usually range from the mid-70s to mid-80s °F during the day. Nights cool off into the 60s. It’s honestly one of the best times to visit before summer heat really takes over.
Still, late spring is peak storm season. Severe thunderstorms, hail, and heavy rain can happen. Check daily forecasts and radar updates, especially if you’re driving or headed to a lake.
Pack clothes for both warm sun and sudden rain. A light jacket, rain gear, and sturdy shoes make outdoor plans more comfortable. Sunscreen and bug spray matter too, since humidity and mosquitoes ramp up by late May.
If you’re camping or boating, keep an eye on lake conditions. Rising water can hide hazards, and strong winds make boating risky. Local advisories from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or state parks give you solid updates.
Best Practices for Travelers
You’ll probably hit heavy traffic around Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and those popular lake spots. If you want to skip the worst of it, try leaving super early or driving when most people aren’t on the road.
Book your hotel or campsite ahead of time. Memorial Day crowds fill up places fast, so don’t wait until the last minute.
Try to keep your plans flexible. Outdoor concerts, festivals, and even sporting events might change times or get canceled if the weather turns bad. Always have a backup plan, maybe a local museum or some indoor spot you actually want to check out.
Bring an emergency kit when you drive. Toss in water, snacks, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit. If storms could happen, make sure you know where the nearest shelter is as you go.
If you’re traveling with family, pick activities that work no matter what the weather does. Maybe start with a morning hike, then switch to an indoor museum if storms roll in. That way, you still get to enjoy the trip and stay safe.
How Memorial Day Weather Compares to Other Times of Year
Oklahoma’s Memorial Day weather usually lands somewhere between spring’s milder days and the hotter summer stretch. You’ll still see some rain, but it’s not quite as stormy as earlier in the season, which definitely changes how you plan outdoor stuff or travel.
Comparison With Spring and Summer Weather
Spring in Oklahoma? People know it for severe thunderstorms, hail, and tornadoes. April and early May bring the highest risk for those big storms. By late May, the worst of it starts fading, though you can still get scattered thunderstorms.
Memorial Day temps generally hit the mid-70s to mid-80s °F. That’s warmer than March and April, when highs usually stay in the 60s or 70s. But it’s not as hot as July and August, when you can expect regular highs in the mid-90s or above.
Rain in late May is pretty moderate. You might catch a shower, but you probably won’t see the big flooding rains that sometimes hit in April. Summer brings more steady heat, less stormy weather, but the humidity really cranks up.
Quick comparison:
- Spring (March–April): 60s–70s °F, high storm risk
- Memorial Day (late May): 70s–80s °F, lower but present storm risk
- Summer (July–August): 90s+ °F, hot and humid, fewer storms
Impact on Travel and Tourism
Memorial Day pretty much kicks off the travel season in Oklahoma. The weather usually feels warm enough for lake trips, camping, and outdoor festivals, but it’s not scorching like midsummer.
That’s honestly one of the best times to get outside and enjoy things. Still, storms can pop up, so it’s smart to check the forecast before you head out for a road trip or plan something outdoors.
You probably won’t run into as many delays as you would during the peak spring storm season. Heavy rain or lightning can still mess with your plans, though.
A lot of visitors find late May hits that sweet spot: warm but not unbearable. If you’re thinking about the best time to visit Oklahoma, Memorial Day weekend usually delivers a nice mix of comfortable weather and seasonal events, without all the summer extremes.