Norman picks up after fire, Governor declares disaster

Governor Kevin Stitt Saturday declared a disaster in Cleveland County and 11 others as Norman picks up following Friday’s wildfire outbreak.

As of 8:30 a.m., city officials report all fires have been contained and damage assessment is being made. Officials revised the damage estimate downward somewhat: 7 homes and 20 outbuildings have been lost to fires. Officials said there are no reports of civilian injuries at this time.

The governor declared a state of emergency in Cleveland, Creek, Dewey, Grady, Lincoln, Logan, Oklahoma, Pawnee, Payne, Pottawatomie, Roger Mills, and Stephens counties after high winds spread the fires across the state.

“Due to impacts from Dangerous wildfires and straight-line-winds beginning Friday, March 14 and continuing including damage to power lines and infrastructure, it is necessary to assist and expedite all efforts of relief,” the governor’s order states. The order removes restrictions from vehicles weight requirements, fees, and other regulations to expedite delivery of goods and services.

City officials state that the shelters will close today, but that those needing recovery help can apply for assistance through the Red Cross.

The Red Cross reports they have supported firefighters and other first responders, fulfilling requests for nearly 600 meals so far in the disaster.

OG&E electric company reports that power has been restored to 83% of customers who experienced an outage from Friday’s extreme high winds, but that approximately 10,200 customers remain without power.

“Approximately 1,700 operational and support personnel are responding by repairing the grid and restoring power to homes and businesses that can accept power,” the company stated in a release.” While evaluations are ongoing, damage to the grid includes downed power lines, 200 broken power poles, damaged transmission structures, tree damage to equipment, broken cross arms and other equipment attached to poles.”