Thunderstorms possible Monday, then rollercoaster of temperatures to continue

(TULSA, Okla.) Areas of rain are expected to persist Monday night across eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas in advance of a storm system that will move through the area. A few thunderstorms will even be possible as the storm system draws closer. Rainfall amounts are expected to be in the one-quarter to one inch range with locally higher amounts possible across southeast Oklahoma and western Arkansas. This could lead to localized flooding of low lying areas. Instability looks to be insufficient for severe storms. It appears all rain will end before temperatures fall below freezing late Monday night. A major warmup is on tap for Wednesday and Thursday just ahead of the next cold front. Much of the forecast area will see temperatures warm into the 70s Thursday afternoon. With the warmer temperatures and breezy south winds, fire danger will also be on the rise Wednesday and Thursday. Much colder weather will return for Friday into early next week. A potential winter storm looks to affect the area just beyond this forecast period, with multiple wintry precipitation types appearing possible.