Oklahoma Faces Increased Fire Risks: Drought, Strong Winds Prompt Zero-Tolerance Policy

Oklahoma enforces a zero-tolerance burn ban across 43 counties amid drought and strong winds. Violations may lead to fines or imprisonment while wildfires continue in some areas. Fortunately, relief is in the forecast.

Tuesday, October 29th 2024, 10:11 am

By: News On 6


The fire threat for northeastern Oklahoma is high to begin the week as drought conditions worsen and wind gusts reach upwards of 40 miles per hour.

A burn ban is in place for 43 counties including Tulsa, Creek, and Rogers. For more information, visit the Oklahoma Forestry Services website.

Assistant fire marshals are enforcing a zero-tolerance policy for open burns during the burn ban. Violations could result in a fine of up to $1,200 and/or six months in jail. Outdoor burning—including controlled burns, bonfires, fire pits, and chimineas—is prohibited under the burn ban. Grilling and welding over a non-flammable surface are allowed.

In SW Oklahoma, a wildfire continues in portions of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge on Monday, where officials estimate over 12,000 acres have burned and the fire is less than half contained.

Fortunately, relief is in the forecast with several chances of rain and showers this week, beginning on Wednesday.

Which Counties are under a burn ban in Oklahoma? (Oct. 28, 2024)

  1. Ottawa
  2. Delaware
  3. Mayes
  4. Nowata
  5. Rogers
  6. Washington
  7. Wagoner
  8. Cherokee
  9. Adair
  10. Tulsa
  11. Creek
  12. Payne
  13. Logan
  14. Noble
  15. Kay
  16. Grant
  17. Logan
  18. Kingfisher
  19. McIntosh
  20. Haskell
  21. LeFlore
  22. McCurtain
  23. Pushmataha
  24. Choctaw
  25. Hughes
  26. Coal
  27. Atoka
  28. Bryan
  29. Pontotoc
  30. Garvin
  31. Carter
  32. Marshall
  33. Love
  34. Stephens
  35. Jefferson
  36. Grady
  37. Caddo
  38. Cotton
  39. Kiowa
  40. Tillman
  41. Greer
  42. Jackson
  43. Harmon
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