Tulsa, Okla. — Warm, dry, and breezy conditions are creating limited grassland fire weather concerns across eastern Oklahoma and far northwest Arkansas Friday, particularly during the late morning through afternoon hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, temperatures are expected to rise into the mid-60s to mid-70s, while relative humidity drops to 25–40 percent. At the same time, north to northwest winds gusting between 20 and 30 miles per hour will develop, increasing the potential for grass fires to spread quickly if ignited.
The highest concern extends across portions of eastern Oklahoma, including areas near U.S. 75, U.S. 60, U.S. 69, and U.S. 270, as well as far northwest Arkansas near I-540. While conditions are not expected to reach critical fire weather thresholds, officials say dry fuels combined with gusty winds could allow fires to spread at rates of 80 to 120 feet per minute.
Fire officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning and use extreme caution with ignition sources. Discarded cigarettes, welding sparks, and parking vehicles on dry grass can easily start fires under these conditions. Any fires that do develop may spread rapidly and become difficult to control.
Winds are expected to gradually weaken Friday evening, reducing fire weather concerns overnight. A brief cool-down is forecast for Saturday, followed by a return to well-above-normal temperatures for the first half of next week.
Emergency managers remind the public that even “limited” fire weather days can still produce dangerous outcomes, especially in grassy and rural areas. Staying alert and preventing accidental ignitions remains the most effective way to reduce wildfire risk during warm, windy periods like this.
No Red Flag Warning has been issued at this time, but residents are encouraged to monitor updates from the National Weather Service and local officials throughout the day.
