OKLA. CITY —
Gov. Mary Fallin today declared a State of Emergency for all 77 Oklahoma counties due to the devastating wildfires. Already more than two dozen fires have been reported throughout the state causing evacuations in some areas.
Fires have been reported near Harrah and Choctaw. A large grass fire in the area of East Reno and Luther Road forced several home evacuations earlier in the afternoon. Also evacuated were Harrah Junior High School and Harrah High School students.
The Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office strongly discouraged travel in the area as several roads were closed while multiple fire agencies battled the blazes.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all Oklahomans who have been impacted by these fires as well as our emergency responders in harms’ way,” Fallin said. “We know homes, as well as other property, have been lost and we will work to do everything we can to help Oklahomans during their time of need.”
Under the Executive Order, state agencies can make emergency purchases and acquisitions needed to expedite the delivery of resources to local jurisdictions. The declaration also marks a first step toward seeking federal assistance should it be necessary.
The American Red Cross has Disaster Action Teams stationed in Shawnee, Stroud, Harrah, Goldsby and near Duncan — sites of some of the worst wildfires on Friday.
The American Red Cross has opened a shelter at Harmony Christian Church, 7100 S. Choctaw Road in Choctaw.
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