Fire Risk Continues Into The Weekend for Oklahoma

Fire concern will continue into the weekend for most of Oklahoma. Gusty winds and dry vegetation could make easy fuel for a wildfire across Oklahoma on Friday and Saturday.

Several wildfires sparked across Oklahoma on Thursday, Dec. 18 as most of the state saw elevated to near-critical fire risk. Those factors continue into Friday for most of Oklahoma. In the Fire Situation Report for Dec. 19, the Oklahoma Forestry Services reported that three fires burned 81 acres on Thursday.

Gusty winds expected Friday afternoon across Oklahoma.

Friday is expected to see gusty winds, specifically between the hours of 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. The winds will be strong out of the south at 20 to 30 miles per hour with gusts at 40 miles per hour possible.

Hazards with these winds include difficulty traveling, objects being blown around and near-critical fire conditions.

A dry cold front will increase the fire risk for Saturday in western and southwest Oklahoma.

A dry cold front is expected to move in Saturday shifting the winds, but fire weather potential will still persist for portions of western and southwest Oklahoma. These areas will see an elevated fire risk continue into Saturday.

READ MORE: A Look Back At Oklahoma's Significant Christmas Day Weather

Record-breaking temperatures anticipated for Christmas Day in Oklahoma.

Above average temperatures are expected through next week, with record-breaking high temperatures anticipated for Christmas Day. Temperatures will continue to trend above average from now until the end of next week.

Portions of Oklahoma could see temperatures in the 80s on Christmas Day, presenting the opportunity to break some records.