Wildfires Devastate Oklahoma and Texas, Leaving Four Dead and Hundreds of Homes Destroyed
High winds and dry conditions fueled over 130 wildfires across Oklahoma and Texas, prompting a state of emergency and widespread evacuations.
- At least four people have died, including two in vehicle accidents caused by poor visibility from smoke and dust, and two others in wildfire-related incidents.
- More than 170,000 acres have burned across Oklahoma, with over 400 homes and structures damaged or destroyed, including 74 in Stillwater alone.
- Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt declared a state of emergency for 12 counties, noting this as one of the worst wildfire outbreaks in the state’s history.
- Firefighters faced extreme challenges containing the fires due to 70 mph winds, low humidity, and dry conditions, described as a 'perfect recipe for wildfires.'
- The American Red Cross has deployed 50 disaster workers, providing shelter for displaced residents and serving over 1,200 meals as recovery efforts begin.