According to firefighters on the scene, by 1 p.m. Monday, the Woodcrest Fire Department had a wildfire 95% contained. Located in a small valley on the southside of Charter Oak, east of Harrah Road, it appears a burn pile of bulldozed trees ignited and spread to grass and trees as the winds grew stronger, threatening to spread.
Concerned neighbors showed up with shovels to help cover smoldering spots, and Woodcrest pledged to stay until it was out or until they were called elsewhere.
For what it’s worth and a reminder to residents of Luther in Logan County: our designated volunteer fire department is Woodcrest, located nearly 20 miles away. There is no direct through-route without fire apparatus traveling south to Sorghum Mill in Oklahoma County to cross over to Luther Road and then back north, at least a 30-minute drive. Thank you, Woodcrest!
FIRE WEATHER INTENSIFIES
The National Weather Service has elevated the fire weather advisory to a RED FLAG WARNING from now through 10 pm, Tuesday (3/18).
Description
* WINDS…South 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph.
* RELATIVE HUMIDITY…As low as 14 percent.
* TEMPERATURES…Up to 84.
* IMPACTS…Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly.
Outdoor burning is not recommended.
* SEVERITY…
FUELS (ERC)…70th-89th percentile…4 (out of 5).
WEATHER…Near Critical…2 (out of 5).
FIRE ENVIRONMENT…6 (out of 10).
Instructions
A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures will contribute to extreme fire behavior.
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