Gov. Fallin declares drought emergency

Governor Mary Fallin Monday declared a State of Emergency for all 77 Oklahoma counties due to extreme or exceptional drought conditions.

“Extreme heat and dry conditions continue to affect the entire state,” Fallin said. “My administration will be ready to help provide whatever aid and assistance it can as Oklahoma communities work to cope with this drought.”

The Executive Order allows state agencies to make emergency purchases related to disaster relief and preparedness. It is also a first step toward seeking federal assistance should it be necessary.

Under the executive order, the state of emergency lasts for 30 days. It can be amended at a later time based on conditions on the ground.

Click here to see a copy of the executive order.

Due to drought, 47 Oklahoma counties have declared countywide burn bans. Click here for a list of county burn bans.   Tulsa County is included in the burn ban.

The resolution, passed by Tulsa County Commissioners, prohibits outdoor burning in the county including controlled burns and bonfires.  This burn ban allows exceptions for outdoor grilling with electric or gas grills as long as the outdoor grilling is done over gravel, concrete, or another non-flammable surface.  In addition, all operating grills should be attended by an adult who has direct access to a water hose.  Local fire departments and fire districts were also given the flexibility to authorize exceptions to the burn ban on a case-by-case basis.