Tulsa, Oklahoma – Any spark could turn into a fast-moving wildfire within minutes across eastern Oklahoma this afternoon as strong winds and extremely dry air combine to create critical fire conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect until 8 p.m. Sunday for east-central Oklahoma into west-central Arkansas, now including the Fort Smith area. Southwest winds of 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph, are driving rapid fire growth, while relative humidity levels drop as low as 15 to 25 percent.
Cities including Tulsa, Muskogee, Bartlesville, McAlester and Fort Smith face the highest risk, where dry vegetation and warm temperatures in the upper 80s to mid-90s will allow fires to spread quickly and unpredictably. Open areas along U.S. Highway 69 and Interstate 40 are especially vulnerable to wind-driven flames.
Officials urge residents to delay outdoor burning, fully extinguish any existing fires, and properly dispose of cigarettes. Equipment that produces sparks should also be avoided during peak wind hours.
Conditions will remain critical through early evening, with fire danger expected to ease after sunset as winds weaken and humidity recovers. Additional warnings could be issued if conditions persist.
