Fire danger rises again as Oklahoma warms into the 70s
While victims of last week’s wildfires try to recover from the widespread devastation in the northwest and the Panhandle, the Oklahoma Forestry Division expects increased fire dangers as temperatures climb into the 70s this week.
The renewed concern comes as firefighters continue mop-up operations and containment efforts on some of the largest fires in western and northeastern Oklahoma. Even with progress reported on major incidents, state officials warn that warmer temperatures, low humidity and gusty winds could quickly reverse gains made over the past several days.
Rising temperatures elevate wildfire concerns
In a Monday-morning report, the Division stated the warming weather will elevate the fire danger concerns across the west and into central Oklahoma.
“Single digit relative humidity values in the Panhandle and most
locations across the state <25% will drive receptive fuels across
the state. Breezy southwest winds will be strongest in the
northwest in the morning expanding to the east toward the late
afternoon and evening hours. Grass and range fuels will support
moderate to rapid rates of fire spread and mixed fuels will exhibit
single/group tree torching and short-range spotting. Initial attack
efforts will be challenged with emphasis on the western, central
and northern counties. While significant fire potential remains
low, large fire probabilities increase,” per the Forestry Division update.
The Division also said in its Outlook that “Fire danger will be a recurrent theme through the week across Oklahoma. Overall, the strongest fire environment alignment (fuels/weather/topography) resides across the western/northwestern regions noting that Tuesday and Friday point to more widespread concern.”
State officials emphasized that even areas receiving limited rainfall in recent days have not seen enough moisture recovery to significantly reduce fire behavior risks, particularly in grass and range fuels.
Progress reported on major fires
Firefighters have been able to get more of the largest Panhandle fire under control. The Ranger Road Fire, which burned in Beaver and Harper counties and raced across the state line into southwest Kansas, is now reported at 65% contained. It burned more than 283,000 acres in the Panhandle.
Large/Significant Fire Activity:
• Backwoods Hunting Club Fire (Adair County): 114.5 Acres / 80% Contained
• Ranger Road Fire (Beaver/Harper Counties/Kansas): 283,283 Acres (est.) / 65% Contained
• Drowning Creek Fire (Delaware County): 536 Acres / 90% Contained
• Stevens Fire (Texas County / Kansas): 12,428 Acres / 90% Contained
• Poor Farm Fire (Latimer County): 9,565 Acres / 90% Contained
• 615 Fire (Cherokee County): 242 Acres / 90% Contained
Emergency crews continue to monitor containment lines and patrol for flare-ups, particularly in areas where dry winds could reignite hot spots.
Drone footage highlights close calls
Drone coverage last week showed how one firefighter and his vehicle were saved by another road maintenance vehicle.
It was a week ago when the fires destroyed several homes in the small town of Tyrone, as witnessed by more drone coverage.
As recovery efforts continue in affected communities, the Oklahoma Forestry Division is urging residents to remain vigilant, avoid outdoor burning and report any signs of smoke immediately as fire danger levels increase again across much of the state.