Oklahoma City Braces for Weeklong 100-Degree Inferno as Fire Danger Rises

Oklahoma City is waking to clear skies and about 75 degrees Saturday, but the easy start will not last: afternoon temperatures rise to around 102 under sunny skies. Rain chances are essentially zero, setting up a hot, dry weekend and a stubborn run of triple-digit heat into next week.

Saturday Heat Builds Into The Afternoon

South winds around 12 mph will accompany the heat, with temperatures reaching about 100 late in the afternoon before topping out near 102. The National Weather Service says low humidity and very dry fuels will create elevated fire-weather conditions across western Oklahoma and nearby areas.

No watches, warnings or advisories are listed for Oklahoma City, but the forecast discussion says a Fire Danger Statement was issued for Saturday afternoon. Outdoor burning, discarded cigarettes and anything that could create a spark deserve extra caution while vegetation remains dry.

Sunday May Be The Toughest Day

Sunday stays mostly sunny and near 102, with heat-index values reaching as high as 104. South-southwest winds around 14 mph could gust to 21 mph, adding discomfort and helping fires spread more easily if one starts.

No Real Cooldown In Sight

Overnight lows only dip to 78 Saturday night, 79 Sunday night and 78 Monday night, so evenings will offer limited relief. Monday reaches about 101, followed by sunny highs near 100 Tuesday and Wednesday, around 101 Thursday and 100 Friday.

Rain is absent from the forecast through the period, with only a 1% chance Wednesday and chances no higher than 6% by Friday. The extended outlook calls for persistent heat, worsening drought and continued elevated fire-weather conditions across the region.

Plan For Heat, Not A Washout

Move strenuous work and exercise to the morning or evening, drink water often, and take breaks in shade or air conditioning during the afternoon. Check on older adults, children, neighbors and pets, and never leave anyone in a parked vehicle.