Woodward County, Oklahoma, is currently facing severe weather conditions as intense winds fuel critical fire danger across the Central United States this weekend. The combination of low humidity and high winds has created an extreme fire weather threat, prompting red flag warnings that cover over 10 million people in the Southern and Central Plains.
Multiple wildfires have broken out in Oklahoma, with firefighters battling the flames across six counties amid winds reaching up to 60 mph on Saturday. Aircraft have been deployed to assist in slowing down the fires, which were still burning as of Saturday night.
One of the wildfires in Woodward County forced temporary evacuation orders, with two firefighters sustaining burn injuries and being hospitalized while combating the flames. The dry conditions coupled with strong winds have created a favorable environment for wildfire growth, especially in western portions of the Southern Plains.
In response to the escalating fire threat, emergency responses have been activated in Kansas, Texas, and Oklahoma, with state resources being mobilized to address the critical wildfire situation. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issued a state of disaster proclamation, urging residents to refrain from burning during this period of extreme fire danger.
Meanwhile, in Texas, emergency response resources have been activated to assist local wildfire response efforts to ensure communities are prepared for the heightened fire threat. In Oklahoma, the State Emergency Operations Center has been activated, with agencies from across the state working together to contain the wildfires.
The situation in Oklahoma has prompted Governor Kevin Stitt to request fire management assistance from FEMA to aid in the wildfire response efforts. As the fires continue to pose a threat to the region, first responders and residents in affected areas are being urged to exercise caution and stay informed about the evolving situation.
The National Weather Service has issued high wind warnings in several states, including Kansas, New Mexico, Wyoming, Nebraska, Colorado, and Texas, with wind gusts expected to reach up to 100 mph in certain areas. Residents are advised to stay indoors and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from potential property damage, power outages, and travel disruptions caused by the strong winds.