Jenks Mulch Fire Sparks State of Emergency Amidst Smoke Hazards

A massive mulch fire at Gem Dirt in Jenks has prompted a state of emergency declaration, as thick smoke blankets the area and poses significant hazards, particularly on Highway 75. Firefighters have been battling the blaze, described as a "very unique, very challenging problem," for over a week, with strong winds exacerbating the situation and making containment difficult.

State of Emergency Declared Amidst Fire

The Jenks City Council voted to approve a state of emergency declaration on March 25, marking the first such declaration in Jenks since the 2019 floods. Mayor Box stated that the declaration is crucial for securing additional resources and attention to combat the persistent mulch fire. This move aims to streamline the response and provide necessary support to manage the ongoing crisis.

Smoke Hazards and Road Conditions

Smoke emanating from the Gem Dirt facility has significantly reduced visibility on Highway 75 near the Creek Turnpike, creating hazardous driving conditions. Jenks Fire and Rescue has issued advisories urging drivers to exercise caution. While no evacuations are currently planned, residents with respiratory issues are advised to stay indoors. The fire, composed primarily of organic material like leaves, is not considered to be releasing toxic chemicals, according to the Department of Environmental Quality and the Department of Health.

Challenges in Firefighting Efforts

Firefighting efforts have been hampered by several factors, including the sheer volume of material involved – estimated at approximately four and a half million cubic feet – and the distance to the nearest fire hydrant, which is 2,000 feet away. This necessitates a continuous shuttle of water to the site using large tank trucks. Fire Chief Greg Ostrum noted that the nature of mulch fires means that exposing the material to more oxygen can intensify the burning. Crews are working to separate unburnt material from the burning sections, a process expected to be lengthy.

Multi-Agency Response and Outlook

Multiple fire departments, including those from Glenpool, Sapulpa, and Tulsa, have provided assistance. Additionally, forestry services from Oklahoma, Florida, and Louisiana have been deployed, having previously aided in combating recent wildfires across the state. Oklahoma Forestry Services anticipates that it will take two to three days to fully extinguish all flames and smoke. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Key Takeaways

• A state of emergency has been declared in Jenks due to a large mulch fire at Gem Dirt.

• Heavy smoke is causing visibility issues and safety concerns on Highway 75.

• Firefighting is complicated by the vast amount of material and limited water access.

• Multiple agencies are collaborating on the response, with an expected multi-day effort to fully extinguish the blaze.

Sources

• WATCH: Tulsa County Wildfire comes dangerously close to home, News On 6.

• Jenks Fire & Rescue Warns of Smoke Hazards on Highway 75 Amid Ongoing Fire, News on 6.

• Glenpool Firefighters Respond To Fire Near, News On 6.

• Jenks City Council approves State of Emergency due to Gem Dirt mulch fire, KJRH.

• Jenks Fire contains 30-foot mulch fire | News, fox23.com.