Everybody Okay?
From NewsChannel 8:
High Winds Fuel Major Grass Fires In Northeastern Oklahoma Location: Chouteau
Posted: November 27, 2005 9:32 PM EST
URL:
http://www.ktul.com/news/stories/1105/281100.html Chouteau - Northeastern Oklahoma is under a major attack by high winds and very dry conditions, which are fueling dozens of grass fires. The fires are causing residents in several areas to evacuate their homes.
An out-of-control grass fire in Mayes County forced several people from their homes. We've heard several reports of structures being threatened by the flames in Chouteau and Pryor. The Chouteau fire department has asked residents there to evacuate north of Parker Ranch Road east of Highway 69 and south of Highway 412.
Red Cross volunteers are in Mayes County assisting those affected by the fire. In Chouteau, you can go to the Chouteau Methodist Church. In Pryor, help is available at the Pryor First Church of God.
In McIntosh County, another fire caused Interstate 40 to be shut down near Checotah. Volunteers and fire equipment are needed to help fight that blaze. If you can help, call (918)-473-4555.
Evacuations have also been ordered northwest of Tulsa in Sand Springs, where residents of the Wild Mountain Edition were asked to evacuate. That's in the 3000 block of Highway 97. Crews there have been trying to keep a fire from reaching nearby homes.
Another major grass fire in Okfuskee County destroyed one home near Okemah and threatened several others. There are also fires being reported north of Owasso, as well as in Broken Arrow, Sperry, Coweta, Tahlequah, Beggs, Haskell and McAlester.
The fire in Broken Arrow consumed two homes, several hay bales and nearly 100 acres of grass near 131st Street South and 191st East Avenue. Investigators say the fire was caused by downed power lines.
A high wind warning remains in effect for northeastern Oklahoma as wind gusts in excess of 40 miles per hour are being reported. Add to that the very dry vegetation and you've got the perfect conditions for out of control grass fires.
Some areas of northeastern Oklahoma are ten inches below their normal precipitation.
We have crews covering the fires and will continue to update you on this breaking news situation as it develops.
