Norman, OK – A Red Flag Warning has been issued for much of western and southwestern Oklahoma as forecasters warn of dangerous fire weather conditions Tuesday.
The National Weather Service in Norman upgraded a Fire Weather Watch to a Red Flag Warning late Sunday night. The warning will be in effect from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday for Harper, Woods, Ellis, Woodward, Major, Roger Mills, Dewey, Custer, Beckham, Washita, Harmon, Greer, Kiowa and Jackson counties.
Forecasters say a combination of strong winds, very low humidity and unseasonably warm temperatures will create critical fire conditions across the region.
Southwest winds are expected to range from 25 to 35 miles per hour, with gusts up to 55 miles per hour. Relative humidity could drop as low as 14 percent. Afternoon temperatures are forecast to climb into the low to mid 80s, with some areas reaching as high as 85 degrees.
Tuesday’s general forecast for western Oklahoma calls for partly sunny skies and a high near 81 degrees. Winds will increase through the day, shifting from 18 to 23 miles per hour in the morning to 26 to 31 miles per hour in the afternoon, with gusts approaching 47 miles per hour.
Officials warn that any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly under these conditions. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged. A Red Flag Warning means critical fire weather conditions are either occurring or will develop shortly, and residents are urged to avoid activities that could spark a fire.
The fire threat comes as much of western Oklahoma remains locked in drought.
According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor report released Feb. 16, more than 95 percent of Oklahoma is at least Abnormally Dry, and more than 74 percent of the state is in Moderate Drought or worse. Western and southwestern counties are carrying the heaviest drought burden.
Beckham County is largely in Moderate to Severe Drought, with some southern areas nearing Extreme Drought. Soil moisture deficits are becoming more noticeable, and winter wheat and pastureland could face increasing stress without meaningful rainfall.
Washita County is primarily in Moderate Drought, with areas of Severe Drought developing. Surface conditions are dry, and stock ponds and winter grazing operations may be impacted if dry weather continues.
Custer County is mostly in Moderate Drought, with some portions edging into Severe Drought. The drought footprint has expanded since early winter, and subsoil moisture reserves are limited heading toward spring.
Roger Mills County is experiencing some of the more serious drought conditions in the region. Much of the county is in Severe Drought, with areas approaching Extreme Drought. Rangeland and livestock operations are already feeling the strain.
Greer County remains one of the hardest hit areas, with widespread Severe to Extreme Drought. Moisture deficits are significant, and agricultural impacts are likely ongoing. Without above average precipitation, conditions could deteriorate further in the weeks ahead.
With dry fuels, stressed vegetation and strong winds in place, officials urge residents across western Oklahoma to use extreme caution and remain alert for rapidly changing fire conditions Tuesday.
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