Tuesday, October 22nd 2024, 10:46 am
As October rolls on, Oklahomans face a growing concern: fire danger.
With warm temperatures and dry conditions persisting, the risk of wildfires and structure fires is alarmingly high.
Here’s what’s happening and how you can stay safe.
Current Weather Conditions
This week, Oklahoma is experiencing unseasonably warm temperatures, with highs reaching the 80s and 90s.
Meteorologist Lacey Swope said conditions will get worse as the week goes along.
"We have two cold fronts headed our way which will change the wind direction rapidly. When the winds change direction, it makes it difficult for firefighters to battle ongoing fires."
Warmth, gusty winds, and low humidity all contribute to high fire danger.
The Growing Fire Threat
Wildfires have been a persistent issue in the state, especially as recent thunderstorms have sparked numerous fires. While these storms brought localized rain, they were often insufficient to significantly alleviate dry conditions. The state is currently experiencing drought, with many lakes at levels significantly below average. For instance, Lake Hefner is down 7 feet, and other major lakes are similarly affected.
Burn bans have been issued in several counties, including Kingfisher, Grant, Creek, and Tulsa, given the dry landscape. These bans prohibit open flames, such as campfires and outdoor burning, which can quickly escalate into uncontrollable wildfires.
What You Can Do
Swope said Oklahoma needs rain as we head into colder and dryer months.
"Winter months are usually some of our dryest months, so without substantial rainfall, the wildfire risk isn't ending any time soon," Swope said.
Meteorologist Lacey Swope is an Okie through and through, having grown up in the small town of Kiefer. She joined the News 9 weather team in 2011, and you can catch her forecasts weekday mornings on News 9 This Morning and on News 9 at 9a. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma, Lacey wanted to become a meteorologist to study the atmosphere every day and share her passion for weather with others.
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