Red Flag Warning Issued for Western and Southwestern Oklahoma Through Tuesday Evening
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for portions of western and southwestern Oklahoma due to critical fire weather conditions, including high winds and low humidity.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Norman has issued a Red Flag Warning, which is in effect for portions of western and southwestern Oklahoma. This alert replaces the previously issued Fire Weather Watch for the region.
Affected Areas
The warning impacts the following Oklahoma counties:
- Harper
- Woods
- Ellis
- Woodward
- Major
- Roger Mills
- Dewey
- Custer
- Beckham
- Washita
- Harmon
- Greer
- Kiowa
- Jackson
What You Should Do
Residents in the affected areas are strongly advised that outdoor burning is not recommended. A Red Flag Warning signifies that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly. The combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures will contribute to extreme fire behavior. Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Residents should prepare for these hazardous conditions.
Expected Conditions
- Winds: Southwest winds ranging from 25 to 35 mph, with gusts reaching up to 55 mph.
- Relative Humidity: Levels are expected to drop as low as 14 percent.
- Temperatures: Highs are forecast to reach up to 85 degrees.
- Fire Metrics: Fuels (ERC) are rated at the 70th-89th percentile (4 out of 5), weather criticality is rated 3 out of 5, and the overall fire environment is rated 7 out of 10.
Timeline
The Red Flag Warning is effective from 10:00 AM CST on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. The alert is scheduled to remain in effect until 8:00 PM CST on Tuesday evening.
Source: NOAA Official Notice