Large wildfires continue to impact parts of northwestern Oklahoma and the Panhandle, with over 300,000 combined acres burned and a state of emergency in effect for Beaver, Texas, and Woodward counties. While dry and dangerous conditions persist today, February 19, 2026, fire spread potential is expected to be slightly lower than earlier in the week.
Current Major Wildfire Status
- Ranger Road Fire (Beaver County): This is the largest active fire, currently estimated at 283,283 acres with 15% containment. It ignited on Tuesday and crossed from Beaver County into Kansas.
- Stevens Fire (Texas County): This fire has burned approximately 12,428 acres and is 50% contained.
- Side Road Fire (Texas County): Currently at 3,680 acres with 60% containment. It reportedly began following a multi-vehicle accident.
- 43 Road Fire (Woodward County): This fire covers 1,680 acres and is 30% contained.
- 206 Road Fire (Woodward County): This smaller fire has burned 160 acres.
Environmental Conditions and Fire Risk
Extremely dry air is present across the state, with relative humidity levels expected to dip as low as 10-15% in some areas. Rangeland and grass fuels remain very receptive to ignition, leading to rapid fire spread. While winds are expected to relax somewhat overnight, the risk for new wildfire starts remains elevated today as dry air moves further east. Nearly 74% of the state is currently experiencing moderate to extreme drought, which continues to drive high fire danger indices.
Response and Impact
- State of Emergency: Governor Kevin Stitt declared a state of emergency on Wednesday to activate state resources and the emergency operations plan.
- Federal Support: FEMA has approved Fire Management Assistance Grants for the Ranger Road, Stevens, and 43 Road fires to help reimburse firefighting costs.
- Injuries and Damage: Four firefighters were injured in Beaver County earlier this week. Multiple homes and structures have been destroyed, particularly in Woodward and Texas counties.
- Reporting Damage: Residents who have sustained property or agricultural damage are encouraged to report it through the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management at damage.ok.gov.
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