OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Gov. Mary Fallin has declared a state of emergency in all 77 Oklahoma counties due to extreme or exceptional drought conditions.
The executive order issued by Fallin on Monday allows state agencies to make emergency purchases related to disaster relief and preparedness. It is also a first step toward seeking federal assistance, if needed.
Fallin says extreme heat and dry conditions are affecting the entire state. So far, 47 Oklahoma counties have declared countywide burn bans because of the drought.
Fallin's executive order says the State Emergency Operations Plan has been activated and that her administration will help provide whatever assistance it can as Oklahoma communities cope with the drought.
The state of emergency will last for 30 days but can be amended based on conditions on the ground.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.