Nowata Experiences 100 Degree Temperature Swing In One Week

Craig Day, News On 6

NOWATA, Oklahoma -- Our weather is hard to believe, even for Oklahoma. The sunshine and above normal temperatures are a much needed change from our record breaking snowfall and bitter cold temperatures.

Folks in Nowata sure deserve it. That's where it got down to 31 below zero, but no one is complaining now. What a difference a week makes in Oklahoma weather, especially in Nowata.

One week ago it was minus 31, now? Lots of sun.

"Isn't it crazy? I love it," said Nowata resident Julie Koupe.

Nowata set a record low for Oklahoma. Now the area has a new record high for this date. When there is a 100 plus degree temperature change like that in a week's time, you can bet the car wash is a busy place.

"I've lived here all my life, and I've never seen such extremes," Koupe said.

Plenty of people are washing away their winter worries along with all the grime. And you know the saying about the weather in Oklahoma.

"If you don't like it, just stick around. It will change. And it does too," said Junior Hicks, a Nowata resident.

2/10/2011 Related Story: Record-Setting Low Temperatures Across Northern Oklahoma

Even for Oklahoma, it's rare to get such a significant temperature shift in such a short span. But not one is griping, especially golfer Walter Hart.

"It's nice to be back out here on the golf course," Hart said.

Whether it is golf, time at the park, or the car wash, people are getting outside to enjoy it, as the sun does its job of melting snow piles all over town.

"It's nice. A lot nicer than what it was; I'll put it that way," Hicks said.

While just about everyone likes the dramatic change in temperature, there's always something in Oklahoma to give the weather guy a hard time about – like the wind gusts.

But hey, we can deal with wind. Weather is still the talk of the town, but this time in a good way. That being said, as quickly as the weather got nice again, it is still Oklahoma. Old Man Winter could return just as quickly.

"I hope we don't. But I look for us to get some more. But I hope we don't," said Nowata resident Junior Hicks.

Maybe next time it won't be as bad. Hopefully the record cold is a distant memory, and the sunshine is a sign of good things to come.