Weather
Tulsa, OK Fire Danger Today: Winds Up to 30 MPH Oct. 28
Tulsa, OK — Residents across eastern Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas face an increased grass fire spread risk Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 28, as warm temperatures, low humidity and gusty winds combine t
By Lena Wood · 2026-10-28T11:19:36.911Z
Tulsa, OK — Residents across eastern Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas face an increased grass fire spread risk Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 28, as warm temperatures, low humidity and gusty winds combine to create conditions favorable for rapidly spreading fires.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, enhanced grassland fire spread rates are expected Wednesday afternoon, with the greatest concern along and north of Interstate 44, where winds are forecast to be strongest.
Forecasters expect afternoon temperatures to climb into the lower to middle 80s, while minimum relative humidity levels fall between 35% and 50%.
Southerly winds of 10 to 20 mph could gust as high as 30 mph, potentially allowing grass fires to spread quickly through dry vegetation.
Grassland fire spread rates could reach 80 to 140 feet per minute in affected areas, according to the National Weather Service.
That translates to approximately 0.9 to 1.6 mph under the forecast conditions, although actual fire behavior will depend on vegetation, terrain and local weather.
Communities around Tulsa, Bartlesville, Miami and portions of northeastern Oklahoma are among the areas facing elevated concerns.
The enhanced fire spread potential also extends into portions of northwest Arkansas, although the highest rates are expected across eastern Oklahoma.
Residents Urged to Prevent Accidental Fires
The National Weather Service is encouraging residents to exercise caution with outdoor activities that could accidentally ignite dry grass.
Motorists should avoid parking or idling vehicles over dry vegetation, where hot exhaust components could start a fire.
Residents should also properly dispose of cigarettes and ensure any outdoor fires are completely extinguished.
Even a small ignition could become difficult to control if gusty winds push flames through dry grass.
The forecast highlights enhanced fire spread conditions rather than an active wildfire or a confirmed Red Flag Warning.
Residents should monitor local fire restrictions and updated forecasts throughout Wednesday afternoon.
For official weather information, visit weather.gov/tulsa.