Rains lead to removal of burn ban in most areas

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP)--After a weekend of heavy rain in many areas of the state, Gov. Brad Henry Feb. 18 lifted the state's burn ban for all but Cimarron and Texas counties in the Panhandle.

"Even with the rainfall we have received, it is important for all Oklahomans to exercise caution and good common sense when it comes to outdoor burning, particularly when winds are gusty," Henry said. "I will not hesitate to reinstate the ban if conditions warrant it."

The governor's office announced the decision after reviewing precipitation totals and other fire data compiled by forestry officials in the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture.

The agency recommended the ban be modified, citing the significant rainfall this weekend, but urged Oklahomans not to burn outside when winds are higher than 15 miles per hour.

Violation of the ban is a misdemeanor punishable by as much as a $500 fine and one year in jail.

3/3/08
5 Star OK\8-B

Date: 2/28/08

article 2008- 10 - Rainsleadtoremovalofburnban.cfm

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