50° and Thundery outbreaks possible
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Tulsa County Commissioners approved extending the burn ban within Tulsa County for a period not to exceed seven days. Area fire officials determined conditions were appropriate for continuing the burn ban according to the guidelines for extreme fire dangers under state law. Tulsa County is experiencing its fourth driest summer on record.
“We’ve only had 47% of our average rainfall for the year,” said Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency Director Joseph Kralicek. “The heat index is expected to top 100 degrees this week, and no rain is on the horizon. We ask citizens to please be vigilant, as a single spark can ignite dry vegetation very quickly.”
The burn ban prohibits outdoor burning, including controlled burns, bonfires, fire pits, and chimineas. Grilling and welding over a non-flammable surface are permitted. Exemptions for burning must be obtained through area fire districts. Enforcement of the resolution can be carried out by any law enforcement officer in the state of Oklahoma. Anyone convicted of violating the resolution will be subject to a $500 fine, or prison not to exceed a year, or both. Fine amounts may be higher in municipalities.
The burn ban will remain in effect until noon on Monday, September 26. If extreme fire danger conditions persist, subsequent resolutions may be considered for passage.
