Agricultural News
Downturn in Fire Activity due to Colder Temps
Mon, 28 Feb 2022 08:52:42 CST
Statewide Discussion: A winter weather intrusion that included mixed precipitation provided wetting amounts primarily south of I-44 while most locations in western and northern Oklahoma experienced a downturn in wildfire activity primarily due to much colder temperatures. A warming trend with temperatures well-above normal absent of precipitation through the work week will promote increasing fire danger through the week ahead of disturbance late in the week.
Today: The highest fire danger indices today will develop late this afternoon in the Panhandle and western Oklahoma while moderate conditions are expected elsewhere. Temperatures will warm into the mid- to upper-60°'s this afternoon across Oklahoma with afternoon relative humidity values dropping below 30% statewide facilitating strong drying conditions. Generally light wind speeds will hold fire spread potential in check facilitating good opportunity for successful initial attack
. • Oklahoma Panhandle / Northwest / Western Tier: Southwest to west winds sustained 8-12 mph will support moderate rates of fire spread across western Oklahoma. Winds in the western Panhandle are expected to shift to northerly by this afternoon influenced by a surface trough. Temperatures in the area will top out in the 62°-67° with afternoon relative humidity values 10% in the western Panhandle to 19% under partly cloudy skies yielding fine-dead fuel moisture values 4-5%. Rangeland fuels will support head fire rates of spread 71-115 ft/min with flame lengths around 10 ft. exhibiting moderate resistance to control. Fire danger will moderate with sunset as winds become light and variable.
Near-Term: Outside of some potential for a weather system currently on track for late in the week, dry conditions are expected across Oklahoma. Above normal temperatures and a dry airmass will facilitate further drying of dormant fuels and increasing fire danger through the week. Given current forecast data, no significant fire potential is anticipated. It is noteworthy to point out that Energy Release Component has eclipsed the 90th percentile in much of the Panhandle, northwestern and western row of counties. ERC values in this range translate into elevated resistance to control, increased resource needs during initial attack and prolonged effort to control fires.
Burn Bans: Refer to: https://ag.ok.gov/divisions/forestry-services/ for the most current burn ban information and links to specific burn ban proclamations
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