Winds Increase Fire Danger For Oklahoma

Warm, windy and dry conditions raises a fire danger concern for all of Oklahoma today.  

Red Flag Warnings have been issued for 11 counties in western Oklahoma where the fire danger is high. The fire threat is not as high for eastern Oklahoma but we still have to be aware.

Many folks in east central and southeastern Oklahoma are in a moderate to severe drought. 

Dry conditions along with unseasonably warm air and strong winds over the next several days will keep fire danger in the forecast.

State officials say outdoor burning is discouraged.  State Forester George Geissler says any fire that starts will spread rapidly and any outdoor activity the might spark a fire should be postponed.

Fire danger is highest for eastern Oklahoma on Thursday with wind gusts possibly reaching 40 m.p.h. in the afternoon.

A storm system coming in Friday morning will bring some rain, but not much to the area. It will also open the door to cooler air, making it feel again like November.