Governor Mary Fallin Asks Oklahomans To Pray For Rain

NewsOn6.com

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin is asking all Oklahomans to set aside time this Sunday, July 17, 2011 to pray for rain.

Dry conditions have helped contribute to more than 140 wildfires this year, resulting in the loss of dozens of homes.

On Thursday, Fallin signed an executive order issuing a burn ban in 45 counties.

7/14/2011 Related Story: Oklahoma Governor Issues 45-County Burn Ban

Low-levels of rain fall, which match rainfall deficit records dating back to the Dust Bowl, have also lead to significant hardships in the agricultural sector.

"I encourage Oklahomans of all faiths to join me this Sunday in offering their prayers for rain," Fallin said. "For the safety of our firefighters and our communities and the well-being of our crops and livestock, this state needs the current drought to come to an end. The power of prayer is a wonderful thing, and I would ask every Oklahoman to look to a greater power this weekend and ask for rain."

Secretary of Agriculture Jim Reese said he appreciated the governor's call for prayer and would be saying his own this Sunday.