By Fox23.com News Staff
OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Governor Kevin Stitt signed an executive order today declaring a state of emergency in Beaver, Texas, and Woodward counties.
The declaration comes after fires broke out across northwest Oklahoma.
“The Woodward fires are about 20% contained, and we were very fortunate to keep most neighborhoods safe. A few homes were lost, and we’re keeping four injured firefighters in our prayers as they recover after working tirelessly through the night,” said Governor Stitt. “I’m deeply grateful for the incredible efforts of our firefighters and forestry crews on the ground. In Beaver County, the town of Tyrone was evacuated earlier as a precaution. As we head into today and tomorrow, conditions remain dangerous. We need every Oklahoman to stay alert and continue taking fire warnings seriously.”
The State Emergency Operations Plan has been activated and resources of all state departments are available.
The executive order will stay in effect for 30 days.
House Democratic Leader, Cyndi Munson, responded to the wildfires saying in a statement:
“Oklahomans in the Northwest are facing the unimaginable as wildfires devastate thousands of acres, affecting several families and homes. I am grateful to our brave first responders who have and continue to put their lives on the line to work to mitigate damages to these communities. As help is being administered, I urge Oklahomans to take advantage of any resources they need and to pay attention to evacuation notices. Oklahomans are strong, and we will get through this. We must prioritize safety for our most vulnerable communities and ensure help is provided to those who need it.”
Evacuation shelters have been opened to provide service for people in the area:
- Vici Community Center, 604 Main St., Vici, OK
- Cheyenne & Arapaho ERC, Woodward, OK
- Mooreland Community Centers, 105 SE Fifth St., Mooreland, OK
- Mooreland United Methodist Church, 302 S. Elm, Mooreland, OK
Senator Murdock, R-Felt, issued a statement on the state of emergency declaration saying in part:
“I’ve been in constant contact with local emergency officials and the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management as they work together to keep Oklahomans safe. I appreciate Governor Stitt’s swift action in declaring a State of Emergency for Beaver, Texas and Woodward counties, which will help with emergency response and recovery efforts. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has also approved requests for Fire Management Assistance Grants for the Stevens Fire in Texas County, the Ranger Road Fire in Beaver County and the 43 Fire in Woodward County.”
