Wildfires continue to rage across northwest Oklahoma, prompting Governor Kevin Stitt to sign an Executive Order declaring a State of Emergency in Beaver, Texas, and Woodward counties. The decree, Executive Order 2026-09, was signed in response to the Woodward fires, which, as of today, remain only 20% contained. Governor Stitt, in a briefing that was made public on the official state government website, acknowledged the hard work of firefighters and forestry crews who toiled through the night to protect neighborhoods and battle the flames.
"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," Governor Stitt said. The communities affected are on high alert with conditions that remain volatile. Residents are urged to continue taking fire warnings with utmost seriousness and to stay vigilant as the fires persist, according to the official government website.
In an effort to support the ongoing emergency response, two additional local task forces have been directed to deploy to Beaver County. These reinforcements arrive as part of the escalating effort to contain the wildfires and to provide relief to local fire services stretched thin by the ongoing disaster.
Moreover, as the fires have already necessitated the evacuation of Tyrone in Beaver County, authorities are preparing for the possibility of emergency conditions expanding to additional counties. Governor Stitt stressed the importance of community cooperation during this period: "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 preparedness levels may further rise if conditions throughout the week worsen to continue ensuring the safety of all affected areas, as per the official website.
Currently, the focus remains on containment and assessing the needs of affected communities. The State of Emergency declaration is a critical step in mobilizing resources and support for the regions facing the threat of wildfires, and further updates are expected as the situation develops.
