Latest Update on Stillwater Wildfires

Our hearts go out to the families who lost their homes in yesterday’s devastating wind-driven fires. The loss and damage are heartbreaking, but the strength of our Stillwater community is already showing as neighbors, first responders, and volunteers come together to help.

City officials held a press conference this morning at 11 a.m. to provide updates on the fires, response efforts, and how residents can help. Here’s what I know so far:

Fire Response & Current Status

Fire Chief Terry Essary reported that multiple fires started around 1:20 p.m. yesterday in the south and southwest parts of Stillwater. Due to high winds and low humidity, the fires spread rapidly and became impossible to contain.

“We were quickly overwhelmed due to the conditions,” Essary said.

Firefighting efforts included support from Stillwater Police Department, Stillwater Emergency Management, Life Net, OSU, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and fire departments from Glencoe, Perkins, Ingalls, Ponca City, Coyle, Wagner County, Delaware County, and Sumner.

“To be honest with you, seeing your community on fire is a very unsettling thing and something a Fire Chief never wants to experience,” he said.

Firefighters are still working to contain flare-ups, and more fires could rekindle in the coming days.

• At least 50 homes or structures have been impacted, though that number is expected to rise as assessments continue.

• No civilian injuries or deaths have been reported. Some firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation and dehydration and later released.

“We’re not done with this yet,” says Essary. “It is imperative that our community members keep a close watch on their surroundings, their neighbors, their communities, and call 911 if they see a fire.”

Safety Warnings

City Manager Brady Moore offered words of support to those who lost their homes last night. “Our hearts are with them…and we are going to support them throughout this recovery process.” He also thanked the first responders who worked tirelessly through dangerous conditions.

Moore also warned that damaged neighborhoods remain unsafe, as emergency crews are monitoring unstable power lines. Residents should call 911 if they see any hazards.

He also urged community members not to go driving through damaged neighborhoods and to give residents time and space to cope.

Community Support

Vice Mayor Amy Dzialowski outlined ways the community can help:

“How can I help?”

💪 Volunteer for Cleanup: Those who want to help with recovery efforts can email the same address, [email protected], with "VOLUNTEER" in the subject line.

🤝 Donation Drop-Off:

• Stillwater Armory 315 E. 9th Ave.

• Saturday, March 15, 1 - 6 p.m.

• Accepting bottled water, Gatorade, packaged food/snacks, and pet food (no clothing at this time).

💰 Monetary Donations: The United Way of Payne County has set up a relief fund. Donations will stay in Stillwater: https://www.unitedwaypaynecounty.org/form/donate-or-pledge-2022

“I need help. What do I do?”

📩 Immediate Assistance: Residents in need of food, shelter, clothing, animal care, or daily necessities can email [email protected] with "NEED" in the subject line. Requests will be coordinated through the community and churches.

📦 Donation Pickup for Those Affected will be on Sunday, March 16, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

More Information to Come

Officials are still very much taking stock and assessing what all happened and what the needs are, with more information to be provided as they become available.

“Stillwater is strong because of the community cohesion and these groups that come together to assist and support each other,” said Mayor Joyce.

For ongoing updates and resources, visit: https://stillwaterok.gov/872/Emergency

Stay strong Stillwater.

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