Tulsa, Oklahoma – Warm temperatures and increasing winds are setting the stage for elevated grassland fire danger across eastern Oklahoma Sunday and Monday, following a brief round of patchy morning fog near area lakes.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, fog early Sunday will give way to warmer and breezier conditions by the afternoon, with fire weather concerns peaking both Sunday and Monday afternoons. High temperatures are expected to climb into the 50s and lower 70s, while relative humidity drops into the 30 to 45 percent range. South winds of 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph, will support rapid fire spread in dry grasses.
The highest fire risk Sunday afternoon focuses on northeast Oklahoma, expanding Monday afternoon across much of eastern Oklahoma and into far northwest Arkansas. Grassland fire spread rates could become aggressive, especially where cured vegetation is present.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning, properly dispose of cigarettes, and use caution with welding or equipment that could spark fires. Vehicles should not be parked on dry grass, and any existing fires should be fully extinguished.
Near-record warmth is expected to continue through midweek before a pattern shift arrives. Shower and thunderstorm chances return Wednesday night and continue through Thursday, with beneficial rainfall possible, especially southeast of Interstate 44. Cooler temperatures are expected to follow heading into next weekend, though fire weather conditions will remain closely monitored until moisture returns.
