Dry Conditions Prompt Several Oklahoma Counties To Issue Burn Bans

NewsOn6.com

TULSA, Oklahoma -- The lack of rainfall in November has caused several eastern Oklahoma counties to issue burn bans.

Right now, Nowata and Haskell counties have issued burn bans, which are in effect through November 15, 2010.

While that may be bad news for many rural fire departments, News On 6 meteorologist Alan Crone says there may be some relief on the horizon.

Crone says a gusty south wind will continue to pose an enhanced fire danger, but as a front moves in from the northwest by Wednesday and Thursday, this will gradually lesson the fire danger.

Read Alan Crone's Weather Blog on NewsOn6.com.

Under a burn ban, it is unlawful for any person in the affected county to set a grass or wildfire, build a campfire or burn trash.

Anyone convicted could face a fine of up to $500 and not more than one year in the county jail.

The Oklahoma Forestry Service has a web page with the latest burn ban information.