Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt signed Executive Order 2025-26 on Saturday morning, declaring a State of Emergency for twelve Oklahoma counties in response to the destructive wildfires that swept across the state.
The counties included in the emergency declaration include Roger Mills and Dewey.
According to the executive order, "Due to impacts from dangerous wildfires and straight-line winds 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 emergency order will remain in effect for 30 days, allowing for expedited aid and temporarily suspending size and weight restrictions on oversized vehicle permits to facilitate emergency response efforts.
Severe Wind and Power Outages
Tens of thousands of Oklahomans were left without power as extreme winds downed power lines and infrastructure across multiple counties. Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO) reported that at its peak on Friday night, 25,663 customers were without power. By Saturday, PSO announced that 95% of its affected customers had power restored. OG&E and rural electric providers also reported significant outages due to the high winds.
The Oklahoma Emergency Management Office confirmed that over 130 fires were reported across 44 counties, including Beckham, Blaine, Dewey, and Roger Mills. The fires, fueled by high winds and dry conditions, caused widespread destruction, including damage to homes, vehicles, and infrastructure.
Ongoing Firefighting Efforts
As of Sunday, the Oklahoma Forestry Services provided an update on several large wildfires still burning in the western part of the state:
840 Road Fire (Roger Mills/Dewey County) – 27,025 acres burned, 20% contained.
Camargo Fire (Dewey County) – 5,725 acres burned, 20% contained.
1980 Road Fire (Beckham County) – 2,000 acres burned, 40% contained.
First responders and emergency management teams continue battling the fires while assessing damage and assisting affected residents. With the State of Emergency in place, state and local officials are coordinating resources to support firefighting efforts and aid communities impacted by the disaster.
