Fire Burns Several Homes in Oklahoma City

Several city residents were evacuated but no injuries were reported, Fire Maj. Brian Stanland said. Television images showed at least one large structure engulfed in flames.

The region had expected dry conditions, record-high temperatures and winds up to 50 mph to raise the chances of fires this weekend. Oklahoma had called on firefighters from across the South to help battle the blazes.

"Today has been extremely intense," Stanaland said. "I think it's maybe starting to take its toll on our department."

In eastern New Mexico, a wind-driven grass fire forced the evacuation of a casino, community college and neighborhoods in Hobbs on Sunday. Two grass fires near Tatum, close to the Texas state line, prompted police to issue an evacuation order.

The order was later rescinded when the wind shifted.

High winds that plagued New Mexico's eastern plains New Year's Day began dying as the sun went down. Earlier in the afternoon, winds had been reported at 50 mph, with some higher gusts.

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