Cordell, OK – Commissioners in Washita and Jackson counties have issued countywide burn bans as hot, dry and windy conditions continue to raise wildfire concerns across western and southwestern Oklahoma.

Both resolutions were approved Monday, Aug. 10, and took effect immediately. The bans can remain in effect for up to 14 days and may be extended if extreme fire danger continues. Oklahoma Forestry Services says county burn bans are based on factors including weather forecasts, dry vegetation, recent fire activity and input from local fire officials.

Under the resolutions, outdoor burning of forests, grass, range land, crops and other wildlands is prohibited. Campfires, bonfires and the burning of trash or other materials that could start a wildfire are also prohibited.

In Jackson County, violations can result in a fine of up to $500, imprisonment for up to one year, or both. The Washita County resolution lists a fine of up to $1,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.

The bans come as the region faces another stretch of triple-digit temperatures. As of late Monday morning, Altus was sunny and around 96 degrees, with temperatures expected to climb above 100 during the afternoon. The National Weather Service forecast calls for a high near 104 in the Altus area, with southerly winds gusting above 20 mph. A Heat Advisory is also in effect.

Conditions are similarly hot in Washita County. Around Cordell, temperatures are expected to reach approximately 104 degrees Monday, with a Heat Advisory in effect through the evening. Hot weather is expected to continue through much of the week.

Rain does not appear likely to provide much immediate relief. The National Weather Service says western Oklahoma will remain hot and mostly dry through much of the week. Around Jackson County, the first notable rain chance currently showing in the forecast is only about 20 percent Thursday night.

Farther north, the National Weather Service says rain chances may return to portions of northwest Oklahoma late in the week, but widespread rainfall is not currently expected across western Oklahoma.

With little immediate rainfall expected, residents are urged to follow the burn bans and use extra caution with anything capable of producing sparks or starting a grass fire.

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