Norman, Oklahoma – Critical fire weather conditions are expected across western and northwest Oklahoma today, prompting a Red Flag Warning from noon through 7 p.m. CST.
According to the National Weather Service in Norman, warm temperatures, very low humidity, and strong southwest winds will combine to create dangerous wildfire conditions across multiple counties. Affected areas include Roger Mills County and parts of northwest Oklahoma, including Harper, Ellis, and Woodward counties.
Sustained southwest winds of 15 to 25 mph are forecast, with gusts reaching up to 35 mph. Relative humidity levels are expected to fall as low as 11 to 13 percent, while afternoon temperatures climb into the lower 80s. These conditions significantly increase the likelihood that any fire that starts could spread rapidly and become difficult to control.
Fire danger is further elevated due to dry fuels, with Energy Release Component values in the 70th to 89th percentile, placing fuels at a high readiness to burn. The overall fire environment has been rated 6 out of 10, signaling near-critical to critical fire behavior potential.
Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged during the warning period. Sparks from vehicles, agricultural equipment, discarded cigarettes, and roadside fires along highways such as U.S. 283, U.S. 412, and State Highway 15 could quickly escalate under today’s conditions.
Emergency managers urge residents, ranchers, and commuters to remain alert, secure chains and tow equipment, and avoid activities that could ignite fires. Fire response times may be strained if multiple fires develop simultaneously.
The Red Flag Warning will expire at 7 p.m. CST, though officials caution that dry conditions may persist beyond that time.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook and support local independent news.
Have a tip? Message us.
