No relief yet as extreme heat pushes Bartlesville heat index toward 115
Tim Hudson | The Wiley Post
Aug. 16 2026
Very hot conditions continue to create problems for residents as local officials encourage people to take precautions.
"The heat is continuing, and from what I'm seeing in the forecast, there's no relief for at least the next seven days," Washington County Emergency Management Director Kary Cox said Friday. "It's not looking good."
The U.S. Drought Monitor shows drought conditions across Oklahoma, with the most severe conditions concentrated in the western half of the state.
Provided by the National Integrated Drought Information System
The area has seen high temperatures for several weeks, with heat indexes soaring. Cox said that while no deaths have been reported in connection with the heat, heat-related emergency calls have become more prevalent.
"I know the ambulance has run on several heat-related calls — there were three or four heat-related runs today," he said. "They are things like a lady passed out in the backyard, or someone is having chest pains after working outside."
While the area is not currently under a burn ban, Cox said officials are closely watching conditions.
"We are seeing that flash drought is mostly in the western part of the state, but it's been slowly progressing to the east the last few weeks.” He said. “Probably by the end of next week, if the conditions continue as they are supposed to, then the drought index could be in a bad way locally.”
The U.S. Drought Monitor shows Washington County in Moderate Drought, while counties in the western half of Oklahoma are experiencing Extreme Drought and, in some areas, Exceptional Drought, the monitor's highest drought category.
"Right now it is moderate here, and in OKC it is severe and in some cases critical, and it's marching this way," Cox said.
Local missions also offer residents a place to escape the heat if necessary.
"Anytime the temperature or heat index goes over 100 degrees, we are open," said Keith McPhail with B the Light. "We are open every day Monday through Thursday from 10 to 2 for showers, water, food, clothing, resources, and to cool off if they need.”
Support The Wiley Post's mission. Become a subscriber today and help sustain independent journalism that keeps our community informed, holds leaders accountable, and tells the stories that matter.
McPhail added that B the Light also serves as a Red Cross headquarters during disasters in Washington, Nowata and Osage counties.
The forecast calls for continued hot weather through the weekend. Cox said Saturday could bring a heat index of 115 degrees and warned that extreme heat can quickly affect people working outdoors.
"If you have to work outside, take frequent breaks and definitely stay hydrated," he said. "You can't drink enough water, and you need electrolytes. You sweat all that out, and you have to recharge."
Cox also advised people working outside to wear light clothing and stay in the shade as much as possible.
"Wear large-brim hats and even long sleeves, as that can help with direct sunlight,” he said. “Sweating is your natural air conditioning, but you have to replace the moisture.".
He also encouraged residents to check on neighbors and family members who may be working outside or otherwise vulnerable to extreme heat.
"Especially those that are elderly because they can be easily affected by hot weather. Little things to help others can mean a lot," Cox said. "Let's all stay safe."