Norman, OK – A critical fire weather outlook has been issued for parts of the central High Plains as weather conditions worsen Wednesday. Strong winds, low humidity, and dry conditions are expected to significantly increase the risk of wildfire spread across southeastern Wyoming, northwestern Kansas, and adjacent areas.
According to the National Weather Service, a mid-level trough moving across the central U.S. will create gusty west-northwest winds, with speeds of 15-25 mph, and dry air from a post-frontal air mass. As a result, afternoon relative humidity levels are predicted to drop to around 10% in some regions, further intensifying the fire hazard.
In addition to the critical fire weather conditions, heightened wildfire risk extends to a broader area, including parts of southeastern Montana, South Dakota, and northwestern Iowa. These regions will experience lower humidity (20-30%) and strong northwest winds, prompting elevated fire weather warnings.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to avoid outdoor burning, and officials are encouraging vigilance due to the high potential for fast-spreading fires. Firefighters and emergency responders are on high alert.
