Oklahoma Wildfire That Burned Homes, Outbuildings Almost Contained

Oklahoma Forestry Services says firefighters have almost contained a large wildfire east of Okmulgee.

Officials say the Pharoah-Nuyaka fire has burned about 34 square miles and is about 60 percent contained. But residents will likely see and smell smoke for several more days.

Foresters said they will turn control of firefighting efforts over to local fire departments from the area and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

Wildfires have burned about 97 square miles, numerous homes and outbuildings since Feb. 18. State forester George Geissler says the Oklahoma Office of Emergency Management is still assessing the extent of damage from the wildfires.

Forecasters say weather conditions are predicted to be moderate through today, with higher humidity and lower temperatures. But western Oklahoma could experience wind gusts of up to 50 mph.

Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Wildfire Homeowners Oklahoma