35 Oklahoma Counties Under Burn Bans as Fire Danger Grows

35 Oklahoma Counties Under Burn Bans as Extreme Heat Fuels Fire Danger

35 Oklahoma counties under burn bans are facing another stretch of dangerous fire weather as extreme heat, dry vegetation and worsening drought conditions increase the risk of fast-moving wildfires across the state.

The number of counties with active restrictions has increased by two, while temperatures across much of Oklahoma are expected to climb between 100 and 110 degrees. Parts of southeastern Oklahoma could see even more extreme heat, with temperatures potentially reaching 105 to 115 degrees.

The expanding restrictions come as firefighters continue responding to fires sparked under increasingly dangerous conditions, including an overnight wildfire near Shawnee that forced residents from their homes.

35 Oklahoma Counties Under Burn Bans

County commissioners can impose burn bans when drought, weather and vegetation conditions create an extraordinary fire danger. Current restrictions generally prohibit outdoor burning, including trash fires, brush fires, bonfires and other open flames.

The Oklahoma Forestry Services wildfire information system tracks fire conditions and provides statewide resources as crews respond to wildfires and monitor areas where conditions could deteriorate quickly.

With temperatures soaring and vegetation drying out, even activities that do not involve intentionally starting a fire can become dangerous. Dragging trailer chains, hot vehicle components, cigarettes and sparks from equipment can ignite roadside grass.

The combination of extreme heat and drought means a small ignition can quickly become a much larger fire before firefighters arrive.

Car Fire Sparks Wildfire Near Shawnee

That danger became clear overnight in Pottawatomie County, where a vehicle fire near Garrett Lake Road spread into surrounding dry vegetation and triggered evacuations.

Residents in an area between Musson Road and Kings Road were ordered to leave their homes while multiple fire departments worked to stop the flames. The Pottawatomie County wildfire response brought emergency crews to the area late Tuesday night.

Firefighters stopped the fire's forward progress before midnight, and the evacuation order was later lifted, allowing residents to return home.

Crews remained in the area monitoring hot spots and working to prevent the fire from reigniting.

Pottawatomie County has also enacted a 14-day burn ban as officials attempt to reduce the possibility of another fire while dangerous conditions persist.

Extreme Heat Adds To Oklahoma Wildfire Threat

The fire danger is being amplified by another round of triple-digit temperatures across Oklahoma.

Much of the state could see highs between 100 and 110 degrees, while portions of southeastern Oklahoma could experience temperatures approaching 115 degrees.

The National Weather Service provides updated heat warnings, fire-weather forecasts and hazardous weather information as conditions change across the state.

Fire officials are urging Oklahomans to be especially cautious with anything capable of producing heat or sparks. Drivers should make sure trailer chains are secured and avoid parking vehicles over dry grass. Cigarettes should be completely extinguished, and outdoor equipment should be used cautiously.

Residents in wildfire-prone areas can also reduce risk around their homes by removing dead vegetation, leaves, brush and other combustible materials near structures.

With 35 Oklahoma counties under burn bans and extreme temperatures continuing, emergency officials warn that preventing the next wildfire could come down to avoiding a single spark.

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