By Andrew W. Griffin

Red Dirt Report, editor

Posted: July 30, 2012

reddirtreporter@gmail.com

OKLAHOMA CITY – Driving around the city today, it was noticeable that few people were out on the streets and sidewalks – and for good reason!

It was well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit today in central Oklahoma and one didn’t go outside unless one had to.

And now we see Gov. Mary Fallin has declared a State of Emergency for all 77 Oklahoma counties due to extreme or exceptional drought conditions.

Said Fallin: “Extreme heat and dry conditions continue to affect the entire state. 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, notes the press release, 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. 

This heatwave has been hard on everyone. Be sure to check on loved ones and try to keep your pets inside if you can during this extreme heat emergency now affecting all of Oklahoma and the surrounding region.

Copyright 2012 Red Dirt Report