Residences Cleared as Fire Threatens Oklahoma City

OKLAHOMA CITY — Fire officials have ordered residents from dozens of homes in Oklahoma City as a spectacular wildfire pushed by 25-mph wind gusts.

Bursts of flame rose amid thick black smoke as oil-packed cedar trees ignited, giving gawkers a stunning view even from blocks away. Utility poles lit up like matchsticks, and power was out to more than 7,000 homes and businesses.

The fire had yet to consume any structures. But as a precaution residents in a 2-square-mile area were told to leave their homes. Others nearby were advised to stay alert.

A near unrelenting heat wave this summer made conditions ripe for grass fires, with Oklahoma City setting a record for the number of days in a year with temperatures above 100.