Risk of wildfires increases in Oklahoma due to hot, dry and breezy conditions
NORMAN, Okla. -- Thanks to hot, dry and breezy conditions across the state, the risk of wildfires is increasing in Oklahoma.
The National Weather Service says there is an elevated chance of wildfires on Thursday and Friday, especially in northwestern Oklahoma.
Forecasters say south to southeasterly winds of between 10 and 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph are likely in northwestern Oklahoma. High temperatures in the region will be in the 90s and humidity levels will remain low with little chance for thunderstorm activity through Sunday.
The NWS in Norman, Oklahoma, tweeted out a warning early Thursday urging residents to practice fire safety over the next few days:
A cold front will bring a slight chance of showers to northeastern Oklahoma on Sunday. But limited thunderstorm chances will continue through the early part of next week. Unseasonably warm temperatures are forecast for the weekend and through the middle of the upcoming week.
The National Weather Service offered the following information and tips on fire prevention:
- Power equipment can cause sparks
- Keep cigarette butts in your car
- Check those trailer chains
- Don't park cars on grass
- Use care grilling or barbequing
- No fireworks
