This fire update was received through City of Altus Emergency Management Director Lloyd Colston, from the State Department of Emergency Management.

Fire Weather

Drought conditions will continue across the state with little improvement anticipated through the end of August. The wildfire threat has decreased some, although remains very high. Hot temperatures will return Monday and Tuesday with highs forecast near or above 100 degrees across much of the state. The extreme temperatures of the past week are not expected. Wind speeds will be lower over the next few days as compared to the past week. The lower wind speeds will help keep the fire threat below the critical range experienced Friday and Saturday. Short-term relief is expected on Wednesday when temperatures are expected in the mid to upper 90s and the forecast includes the possibility of rain. However, temperatures return to the 100s by Thursday.

State of Emergency

A State of Emergency remains in place for all 77 Oklahoma counties as declared Monday by Gov. Mary Fallin due to extreme or exceptional drought conditions. 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.

Statewide Burn Ban

A statewide Burn Ban is in effect. This ban, issued by Gov. Mary Fallin on Friday, supersedes all county burn bans currently in place and remains in place until conditions improve and it is removed by the Governor. For a copy of the current burn ban resolution or for the most up-to-date information go to: www.forestry.ok.gov/ burn-ban-information