NORMAN, Okla. — Cleveland County is one of the many counties currently under a state of emergency, as wildfires continue to threaten communities across the region. The National Weather Service issued an evacuation order Friday for residents living in East Norman, following the report of six active wildfires in the area.
The situation escalated rapidly, leaving many residents in a state of uncertainty and fear. Katie Swindell, a resident of Northeast Norman, described the chaos as she tried to return home after the evacuation order was issued. “It was a little crazy getting that text message that you can’t go back to your house,” Swindell recalled. “The traffic was terrible; they had everyone staged, and the roads were blocked off on both sides. Nobody could get in, and then you had everyone trying to turn around. It was just terrible.”
Swindell, who was not at home when the evacuation order was given, was able to watch the frightening scenes unfold via her Ring camera. From her vantage point, she saw her neighbor’s home catch fire. “I watched it happen in real-time,” she said, visibly shaken. The flames consumed the property, adding to the growing concern in the community.
Other residents in the area, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed similar feelings of unease and anxiety but declined to speak on camera. Many described being shaken by the events, with some not returning home until Saturday morning, after the fires were under control.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging residents in affected areas to stay alert and follow evacuation orders for their safety. The wildfires, fueled by high winds and dry conditions, have already caused significant damage to properties, and officials are working to contain the spread.
As the situation evolves, local authorities are coordinating efforts to provide relief to those affected, while residents remain on edge, hoping for relief from the ongoing disaster.
