Fire Weather Thursday

High fire danger conditions exist in the state Thursday, especially in western Oklahoma.  A Red Flag Warning is in effect for parts of western and southwestern Oklahoma from Noon until 9 p.m. Thursday.  Southwest winds will increase to 15 to 25 mph ahead of an approaching cold front.  Extremely dry air will also move into western Oklahoma behind a dryline, dropping relative humidities to less than 20 percent.  Afternoon temperatures will also climb into the upper 70's and low 80's before the cold front passes.  Even though temperatures will cool some behind the front, winds will still be strong in the 15 to 25 mph range from the north.

Overnight into Friday, there is a slight chance for showers and thunderstorms in the state.  The next best chance for rain comes late Sunday into Monday, with southeast Oklahoma most likely to benefit.  Expect winds to stay at least in the 10 to 20 mph range for the next seven days, with winds most often remaining sustained at 15 to 25 mph.

Stay with News9 and News9.com, we'll keep you advised.

--News9 Meteorologist Carrie Rose