Grassfire Engulfs Craig County Farmland; Bales Of Hay Go Up

A fire west of Vinita has shut down State Highway 60 in Craig County.

There are no homes in danger at this time and the area is mainly comprised of farmland near White Oak.

Both lanes of Highway 60 were closed between Vinita and Nowata for about an hour.

At least 12 fire departments battled the fire, and their aggressive response prevented any structures from burning.

According to Osage SkyNews6 pilot Will Kavanagh, at least 600 acres and maybe as much as 1,000 acres have burned.

One farmer lost an estimated 300 round bales of hay, a tough blow in a winter following a serious summer drought. Prices of hay have skyrocketed and it's in short supply. His loss in hay alone so far is estimated to be nearly $15,000.

Burn bans are in effect in 23 counties as dry conditions persist. 

Oklahoma Forestry Services - Current County Burn Bans

The National Weather Service has no red flag fire warnings in effect in Oklahoma -- although the weather service says warm temperatures combined with gusty winds and low humidity readings elevate the risk of wildfire through Thursday evening.