Oil rig explodes in Okla.; no injuries reported

[September 20, 2011]  WATONGA, Okla. (AP) -- Authorities say an oil rig explosion that lit up the night sky about 60 miles northwest of Oklahoma City forced the evacuation of several homes but did not cause any reported injuries.

Blaine County Sheriff's dispatcher C.J. Woulard says the fire caused by the Monday night explosion at the rig near Watonga, Okla., was still burning Tuesday morning. He says no injuries had been reported.

County Sheriff Ricky Ainsworth says that homes within a two-mile radius were evacuated. He did not immediately respond to a phone call early Tuesday seeking further comment.

Witness Maria Slay told the Oklahoman (http://bit.ly/pZ3f6A) that she heard four or five explosions and said workers are at the drilling rig around the clock.

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Information from: The Oklahoman, http://www.newsok.com/

[Associated Press]

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