Enid, Okla. — A devastating wildfire outbreak that swept through Oklahoma on Friday has claimed the lives of four individuals and left 142 others injured, according to officials from the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM).
The fatalities were reported in four counties: Pawnee, Haskell, Lincoln, and Garfield. The wildfires, fueled by high winds and dry conditions, have caused widespread damage across the state. Emergency responders have been working tirelessly to control the blazes and assist those affected by the fires.
As of Sunday evening, OEM confirmed the tragic deaths and updated the public on the growing number of injuries. Firefighters and emergency personnel have been at the forefront of efforts to contain the flames, while local hospitals and medical facilities have been overwhelmed with the injured.
With the wildfire threat still looming, the National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning set to begin Monday at 11 a.m. The warning indicates that the fire danger remains high due to continued high winds and dry conditions. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and to follow all fire safety precautions.
OEM is coordinating efforts with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and local emergency management teams to begin Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments (JPDA) on Monday. These assessments are crucial for determining the full extent of the damage and securing additional resources for recovery efforts.
As Oklahoma continues to battle the aftermath of the fires, officials emphasize the importance of staying informed and prepared for further challenges. Emergency teams are expected to continue their work through the coming days as they assess damage and provide assistance to those in need.
