Intense winds sweeping across the Central United States this weekend are creating critical fire danger in some states and threatening power outages, tree damage, travel disruptions, and blowing dust in others.
The combination of low relative humidity and high winds is resulting in an extreme fire weather threat across the western half of the Southern and Central Plains, marking the highest risk level for fire weather. Red flag warnings are in place for over 10 million people across much of the Plains, covering a vast area nearly border to border.
The heightened fire risk is expected to persist in parts of the Central and Southern Plains through Sunday due to gusty, dry air and an ongoing drought. The National Weather Service has cautioned that any fires that ignite will be challenging to contain in the strong winds.
Firefighters in Oklahoma are currently battling several wildfires across six counties amid winds reaching up to 60 mph. Aircraft have been deployed to help control the fires, but as of Saturday night, some blazes were still burning.
One wildfire in Woodward County prompted temporary evacuation orders, and two firefighters sustained burn injuries while combating the flames, according to local emergency management officials.
Additionally, hurricane-force winds are intensifying in certain areas. The National Weather Service forecasts wind speeds of 30-45 mph with higher gusts from eastern New Mexico to eastern Nebraska, with high wind warnings in effect. Near Denver, wind gusts of up to 100 mph are expected in the foothills.
Residents in windy regions are advised to prepare for potential property and tree damage, power outages, travel disruptions, blowing dust, poor visibility, fire danger, and rapid wildfire spread. The National Weather Service recommends staying indoors, particularly in lower levels of homes, avoiding windows, watching for falling debris and tree limbs, and exercising caution if driving.
Emergency responses have been activated in Kansas, Texas, and Oklahoma due to the fire threat. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly declared a verbal state of disaster to mobilize resources for state assistance, emphasizing the need for vigilance and fire prevention measures.
In Texas, state emergency response resources have been activated to support local wildfire response efforts, while in Oklahoma, the State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating multiple agencies to combat the wildfires. Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has requested Fire Management Assistance from FEMA to bolster the state's wildfire response efforts.
As the critical fire danger and high winds persist, authorities urge residents to stay informed, take precautions, and report any fires promptly to local fire departments to minimize the risk of uncontrolled blazes.
