Oklahoma’s summers are notoriously hot and humid. The four distinct seasons have varying effects in different locations. The mid-latitude jet stream and the annual migration of a vast, semi-permanent area of high pressure focused over the Atlantic Ocean near Bermuda regulate the climate, which is normally temperate throughout.
Summers are usually extremely hot. Daytime highs in the 90s are frequent, and temperatures of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or more are common, especially in the southwest. Drought and summer heat are intimately linked in this Midwestern state.
Oklahoma’s warmest summers on record have coincided with severe precipitation shortages. Let’s look at the state’s history of steamy weather and the place that holds the record for excessive heat.
The Hottest Spot in Oklahoma
On an average of 63 days each year, temperatures in the western panhandle and northeastern region of the state reach 90°F.
Southwest Oklahoma has a median of around 115 days, whereas the southeast has an average of about 85 days. In recent years, May through September have had the highest possibility of temperatures reaching 100°F or above, while April and October have had the lowest frequency.
Western Oklahoma experiences higher summer temperatures than the rest of the state, with 30 to 40 days at or over 100°F. Eastern Oklahoma and the Panhandle enjoy an average of about 15 days with temperatures above 100 degrees.
However, the eastern section of the state has higher summer discomfort due to high humidity levels.
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The Hottest Temperature Ever Recorded in Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s highest temperature ever recorded was 120°F. On July 18, 1936, during the hot heat, this number was first noticed in Alva. It was also documented in Altus on July 19 and August 12. Poteau hit 120° F on August 10, of the same year.
On July 26, 1943, Tishomingo had a temperature of 120°F. On June 27, 1994, the Oklahoma Mesonet station in Tipton also reached the milestone.
History of the Hottest Place in Oklahoma – Tipton, OK
Tipton, located at the crossroads of State Highways 5 and 5C in Tillman County, is about fourteen miles northwest of Frederick, the county seat. The village, once known as Farmersville, was temporarily renamed Stinson after W. A. Stinson, who later sold the townsite to investors from Elk City, Oklahoma.
The hamlet moved in 1909 to take advantage of the Wichita Falls and Northwestern Railway’s vicinity. Citizens requested that the neighborhood be named after John J. Tipton, the conductor of the first train to pass through the area, in recognition of the anticipated benefits of the railroad.
Tipton was platted on July 29, 1909, and the post office opened on September 18, 1909. In 1910, there were 441 residents. 111 years later, in 2021, the population is barely under 900.
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Things to Do in Tipton, Oklahoma
There are a few nice tourist sites in neighboring Frederick, OK. Let’s look at the top three things to do near Tipton, Oklahoma.
The Crawford Collections Museum
The Crawford family has accumulated an impressive collection of trophy mount animals from hunts all around the world. It features over 200 species, including lions, bears, a bull elephant, rhinos, pythons, giraffes, and a variety of other creatures.
Instead of being surrounded by glass or ropes, the creatures are placed so that visitors may go right up close to them and stroll about to see incredible views of wildlife.
Pioneer Heritage Townsite Center
This museum houses a number of authentic structures, including the 1901 Frisco Depot, the 1902 Horse Creek School, a 1924 home, and a 1924 church, all designed to depict a rural townsite in the 1920s.
The townsite features more than ten displays depicting rural Oklahoman life in the 1920s. The museum’s friendly staff is always eager to answer questions and welcome visitors. There is also an annual garden to explore.
Wheat, corn, and cotton are seasonal crops. Frederick’s townsite hosts a variety of annual events for Tipton and the surrounding communities, including “Concerts in the Park” in June and “Arts in Action” in September.
Romana Theatre
The Ramona Theatre’s opening day was October 24. This theater in Frederick, Oklahoma, was still in service in 1957. As a historic site, it is included on the National Register. Now it serves as a neighborhood theater for small-town plays and performances.
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Conclusion
Oklahoma’s summers are defined by scorching temperatures, particularly in the western regions like Tipton, which recorded the state’s highest temperature of 120°F in 1994. Despite the heat, Tipton and neighboring Frederick offer visitors attractions like the Crawford Collections Museum, Pioneer Heritage Townsite Center, and the historic Romana Theatre, showcasing the area’s rich history and culture.