On Thursday, March 13, 2025, Oklahoma experienced sunny skies accompanied by strong winds, significantly increasing the risk of wildfires across the state.
These conditions are attributed to a potent storm system impacting the region, bringing dry air, high temperatures, and gusty winds.
Weather Conditions on Thursday
Thursday’s weather featured clear skies with temperatures reaching the 70s and 80s°F. South winds intensified throughout the day, with gusts up to 70 mph in some areas, such as the Texas Panhandle.
These conditions created an environment conducive to rapid wildfire spread.
Fire Weather Outlook
The Storm Prediction Center issued a Day 2 Fire Weather Outlook for March 14, 2025, highlighting an extremely critical fire weather area covering portions of northwest Texas, much of Oklahoma, and extreme southeastern Kansas.
This assessment is based on the combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures.
Red Flag Warnings
The National Weather Service has issued Red Flag Warnings for Friday, March 14, 2025, from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM CDT, affecting western and central Oklahoma.
These warnings indicate critical fire weather conditions due to gusty winds and low relative humidity.
Fire Danger Indices
Fire Danger Indices assess the potential for wildfire development based on current conditions. On March 13, 2025, indices were categorized as follows:
| Severity Level | Percentage of Area Affected |
|---|---|
| Extremely Critical | 30% |
| Critical | 50% |
| Elevated | 20% |
Safety Precautions
Given the elevated fire risk, residents are advised to adhere to the following precautions:
- Avoid Outdoor Burning: Refrain from activities that could ignite fires, such as burning debris or using equipment that may produce sparks.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Notify authorities of any unattended fires or individuals engaging in activities that could start fires.
- Stay Informed: Monitor updates from local news outlets and official weather sources for the latest information on fire conditions and any evacuation orders.
The combination of sunny conditions, high winds, and dry air on March 13, 2025, has significantly heightened the risk of wildfires in Oklahoma.
Residents are urged to exercise caution, adhere to safety recommendations, and stay informed through reliable sources to protect themselves and their communities.