Devastating Wildfires Sweep Through Stillwater, Multiple Homes Destroyed

Multiple wildfires broke out across southwest Stillwater Friday afternoon, destroying dozens of homes and prompting officials to declare a state of emergency as firefighters continue battling hotspots and potential flare-ups.

Stillwater Fire Chief Terry Essary said the fires, which began around 1:20 p.m. on March 14, spread rapidly due to gusting winds reaching 70 mph and low humidity.

"To be honest with you, seeing your community on fire is a very unsettling thing and it's something a fire chief never wants to experience," Essary said. "We as a group, collectively, went to work and started doing the best we could for as many people as possible."

Officials estimate more than 50 homes and structures have been impacted or destroyed, with that number expected to rise as assessment continues. Despite the extensive damage, authorities report no civilian injuries or fatalities.

Stillwater Mayor Will Joyce has issued a formal proclamation declaring a state of emergency within city limits, allowing Stillwater to access additional resources and request assistance from the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Federal Emergency Management Agency.

"Stillwater is strong and we're strong because of the community cohesion and these groups that come together when we need to assist and support each other," Joyce said.

The city has activated its emergency operations plan and received support from multiple jurisdictions including Coyle, Glencoe, Perkins, Ingalls, Ponca City, Wagner County, Delaware County and Sumner. Two task forces from Wagner and Delaware counties have been deployed to assist local firefighters.

City Manager Brady Moore expressed concern for affected residents after visiting damaged areas Saturday morning.

"Just driving through the scenes this morning and seeing some very close friends standing at the end of their driveways wondering what's next. We want them to know that our city is with them, we're standing by them and we are going to support them throughout this recovery process," Moore said.

Officials warn that dangerous conditions persist, with firefighters still working to contain hotspots and prevent new fires. Residents returning to affected neighborhoods should be cautious of unstable power lines and other hazards.

"We anticipate that more fires will ignite. We're not done with this yet," Essary said. "We're going to still have hot spots, we're going to have rekindles in the burn area and this could continue for the next few days."

Approximately 1,000 customers remain without power within Central Electric Cooperative's coverage area. City crews are working to turn off water to damaged properties, while utility companies address gas line safety.

Officials express concern about air quality impacts from the wildfires.

"Wildfires produce toxic smoke that causes respiratory issues, especially for vulnerable populations such as our elderly, our children and those with pre-existing health conditions such as asthma and other respiratory conditions," Essary said.

The community has mobilized quickly to support those affected. The Payne County Expo Center serves as the designated shelter for displaced residents, though many evacuees have found temporary housing with friends, family, or at local churches that opened their doors.

Vice Mayor Amy Dzialowski is coordinating efforts among area nonprofits, establishing multiple channels for both those needing assistance and those wanting to help.

"Stillwater is a community full of helping hands ... we've been working to focus them this morning for those displaced by the fires," Dzialowski said.

A dedicated email address – stillwaterstrongrelief@gmail.com – has been created for residents to request assistance with food, shelter, clothing, animal care, and daily necessities.

For those wanting to donate supplies, the city has established a drop-off location at the Stillwater Armory at 315 E. Ninth St. The site will accept bottled water, gatorade, packaged food, snacks and pet food on Saturday, March 15, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Affected residents can pick up donations from the armory on Sunday, March 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Payne County United Way has created a dedicated donation button on their website – unitedwaypanecounty.org – for monetary contributions to the Stillwater Strong Relief fund.

Annual Mid South endurance event cancelled

The wildfire emergency has forced the cancellation of the popular Mid South bicycle event, which typically draws thousands of visitors to Stillwater.

"Crystal and Bobby love our city. They support our first responders and when they saw the impact that our first responders were having yesterday and today and with the mayor's declaration of emergency, there was kind of no question that the event needed to be cancelled," Moore said.

Officials ask that curious onlookers avoid affected neighborhoods out of respect for residents who are processing their losses.

"It was quite emotional this morning seeing neighbors hugging and crying with each other," Moore said. "I think if we could hold off on that and just allow our residents to lean on each other in their neighborhoods right now."

The Stillwater Police Department has increased patrols in affected areas to ensure security for damaged properties.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant, monitor their surroundings, and call 911 immediately if they spot new fires or hazardous conditions.