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High Fire Danger Persists

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High Fire Danger Persists

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Friday, March 14 was one for the history books as multiple fires fueled by high winds and dry conditions ravaged Oklahoma.

According to the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM), a total of 130 fires broke out across the state Friday, leaving four people dead and 142 injured. The counties of Lincoln, Garfield, Haskell and Pawnee each reported one fatality. OEM reported Sunday that over 400 homes had been damaged or destroyed statewide.

“The devastation in our state is unimaginable, and I grieve and pray alongside those who are suffering, especially with the family who lost their loved one,” Sen. Grant Green, whose district includes Seminole County, said in a statement. “These fires have tragically destroyed homes, displaced families, lives and have left a lasting impact on us all. In the face of this hardship, I have been humbled by the resilience of Oklahomans and the unwavering dedication of our first responders, firefighters and emergency personnel who have worked around the clock to ensure the safety of others.”

While no homes were damaged in Seminole County, firefighters responded to an estimated 13 active fires between Thursday and Monday morning.

As the new week began, the fire danger was far from over. A red flag warning was in effect for much of Oklahoma from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Monday due to gusty winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation. A Fire Weather Watch remains in effect for today, March 18.

“The next two days will pose an extremely high fire danger. With forecasted winds exceeding 40 mph and humidity levels in the teens, please refrain from burning or engaging in spark-inducing activities. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated,” the Seminole Firefighters Association posted to its social media page Monday morning.

On Saturday, Governor Stitt signed Executive Order 2025-06 declaring a State of Emergency in Cleveland, Creek, Dewey, Grady, Lincoln, Logan, Oklahoma, Pawnee, Payne, Pottawatomie, Roger Mills, and Stephens counties following the fires.

The Executive Order reads, in part: “Due to impacts from Dangerous wildfires and straight-linewinds beginning Friday, March 14 and continuing including damage to power lines and infrastructure, it is necessary to assist and expedite all efforts of relief.”

The declaration temporarily suspends requirements for size and weights permits of oversized vehicles transporting materials and supplies used for emergency relief and power restoration. The order will remain in effect for 30 days.

To help identify all areas of damage across the state, EOM is asking residents impacted by wildfires and/or straight-line-winds to report damages to their property at damage.ok.gov. Reporting damage helps local and state emergency managers better coordinate response and recovery efforts and can help connect residents to resources. Residents can report damage to homes, businesses or agriculture through the online survey.

Ken Childers Editor