Severe Storms and Tornado Chances Increase for Southwest Oklahoma Thursday

Southwest Oklahoma will be the first ones to experience this weekend's weather shift starting Thursday evening. A warm front will move through Thursday that could bring in severe storms and chances for tornadoes.

First Alert 6 Chief Meteorologist Ken Johnson posted to his official Facebook account Thursday morning indicating that he is expecting an increased risk of severe storms along and north of a warm Thursday evening. This includes areas in southwest Oklahoma and northwest Texas.

The main threats for severe storms Thursday is large hail and strong wind gusts. Hail could be up to golf ball size and wind gusts anywhere from 60 to 70 miles per hour.

A low tornado risk is expected Thursday evening.

Along with the severe storms, portions of southwest Oklahoma and northwest Texas have a low chance for tornadoes. Storms could start ramping up around 5 p.m. and are expected to end by 9 a.m. Friday. But the most likely time for storm activity is from 9 p.m. Thursday to 7 a.m. Friday.

Oklahomans are encouraged to have multiple ways to receive warnings Thursday evening and during the overnight hours.

READ MORE: Here's Why October Is a Busy Month For Tornadoes In Oklahoma

Storms and heavy rain will continue into the weekend with flash flooding possible.

Chances for severe storms will continue into Friday and Saturday for a majority of Oklahoma. Heavy rain will be the main threat into the weekend as localized and flash flooding are expected.

A slow-moving storm system will make its way through Oklahoma, starting on Thursday and into Saturday afternoon. Parts of Oklahoma could see over three inches of rain by Saturday. Heavy rainfall is expected to cause flash flooding.