Oklahoma grass fire forces evacuations, closes freeway

CHICKASHA, Okla.—A wildfire fueled by dry vegetation and gusty winds has prompted some Oklahoma residents to flee their homes.

Grady County emergency management official Amanda Wilkerson says some evacuations were ordered Thursday as flames burned pastures and threatened structures near the H.E. Bailey Turnpike south of Bridge Creek.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol says smoke prompted authorities to close part of the turnpike for about two hours Thursday afternoon.

The area is about 28 miles southwest of Oklahoma City. Wilkerson says the number of affected homes wasn’t immediately clear. No injuries have been reported, but the fire has burned about 100 acres.

Jamie Lewis owns a local pet grooming and boarding business. She says she hasn’t been told to evacuate but can see flames through treetops. She says she staying for now to ensure the animals stay safe.