| 2012 Oklahoma wildfires | |
|---|---|
| Date(s) | July 3, 2012 – August 14, 2012[1] (CDT (UTC-5)) |
| Location | Throughout Oklahoma |
| Coordinates | 35°30′N 98°00′W / 35.5°N 98°W |
| Statistics | |
| Burned area | 52,000 acres (81.25 sq mi; 21,040 ha)[2] |
| Impacts | |
| Deaths | 0 |
| Non-fatal injuries | Unknown |
| Structures destroyed | At least 121[3] |
| Ignition | |
| Cause | Drought in the southern United States |
The 2012 Oklahoma wildfires were a series of wildfires which impacted areas throughout the state of Oklahoma. Starting earlier in the year, a widespread drought caused many areas to be exposed to wildfires.[4][5]
Starting in late July and early August, the wildfires burned at least 52,000 acres,[2] and destroyed at least 121 homes and businesses.[3] A wildfire near Luther in Central Oklahoma destroyed about 50 homes and other buildings before getting under control on August 4.[6] Governor of Oklahoma Mary Fallin declared a state of emergency on July 30 due to the drought and wildfires.[7]
Although property damage was substantial, no human lives due to the fires were reported. This may have been because a number of threatened communities were evacuated before fires reached them.