OKLAHOMA CITY — Critical fire weather will be present ahead of a cold front in western Oklahoma and many north-central counties. Citizens in this area are asked to delay any outdoor burning or other activities that could result in a wildfire.
“Any fire that starts will spread rapidly so we are urging everyone to be extremely careful with any outdoor activity that might spark a blaze,” said George Geissler, Oklahoma State Forester. “We are prepositioning wildland firefighter task forces to have a quicker response time in the event that a wildfire occurs.”
Low relative humidity, combined with temperatures in the mid-70s and sustained winds at 25-30 mph, with gusts near or in excess of 40 mph are creating the dangerous conditions. These conditions translate into high to extreme fire danger across all of Oklahoma.
“Citizens actions can play a part in fire occurrence on a day like this,” said Geissler. “We are asking you to report any new fires or suspicious smoke to the closest fire department. Quick response time is critical with this weather forecast.”
Safety of Oklahoma’s firefighters and public is of the utmost concern. One of the main threats for firefighters will be rapid spread of any fire start. In addition to prepositioned task forces, Oklahoma Forestry Services has requested National Guard helicopters be prepared for mobilization in support of fire suppression.
Stay aware of current wildfire conditions by reading our fire situation reports that are posted daily on Facebook and at www.forestry.ok.gov.
About Oklahoma Forestry Services
Oklahoma Forestry Services, a division of the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, is committed to conserving, enhancing and protecting Oklahoma’s 12.5 million acres of forests and woodlands. Since 1925, Oklahoma Forestry Services has worked with individuals and communities throughout the state to create resilient landscapes, fire-adaptive communities and provide wildfire response. Headquartered in Oklahoma City, the division also has regional offices in Broken Bow, Wilburton and Tahlequah. For more information, visit http://www.forestry.ok.gov.
–Oklahoma Forestry Services
For more articles out of Oklahoma, click here.