NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — Firefighters are battling wind-blown grass fires across central Oklahoma, including a fire that has forced partial closure of a busy turnpike.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol says the westbound lanes of the Turner Turnpike were closed Monday afternoon from Chandler to Stroud due to a large grass fire and multiple collisions along the roadway.
Other fires were reported Monday in Spencer, between Mustang and Union City and between Stillwater and Glencoe in Payne County.
Forecasters say much of Oklahoma is at a high risk for wildfires. The National Weather Service says a red flag warning is in effect until 6 p.m. for nine counties in southwestern Oklahoma. Forecasters say warm temperatures, low humidity and gusty winds of up to 50 mph are helping to make dangerous wildfires likely in the region.