Tulsa, OK – A Red Flag Warning has been issued for much of eastern Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas, with weather conditions expected to heighten wildfire risks through 7 p.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, the alert affects 23 counties in Oklahoma—including Tulsa, Muskogee, Cherokee, and Creek—and seven counties in Arkansas, including Benton, Washington, and Sebastian. The warning replaces an earlier Fire Weather Watch.
South to southwest winds between 15 to 30 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph in Oklahoma and 35 mph in Arkansas, will combine with low humidity levels ranging from 15 to 25 percent. Temperatures are forecast to climb into the upper 60s to mid-70s.
Officials say any fires that ignite may spread rapidly due to the dry and windy conditions. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged during the warning period.
Residents are advised to avoid using open flames, properly dispose of cigarettes, and refrain from operating equipment that can generate sparks.
The Red Flag Warning remains in effect until 7 p.m. CDT Friday. Winds are expected to shift later in the afternoon north of Interstate 44, potentially easing fire weather conditions in some areas.
