Immediate Evacuation Ordered for Woodward, Oklahoma Due to Destructive Wildfire

Alert Details

Oklahoma Emergency Management has issued an “Evacuation Immediate” alert for the City of Woodward. The alert was officially issued at 4:46 PM CST on February 17, 2026, following reports of a large and destructive wildfire burning out of control.

Affected Areas

The immediate evacuation order is in effect for the City of Woodward. Specifically, officials have identified the area between Oklahoma Avenue and Hanks Trail, and east of 22nd Street, as being in immediate danger. The fire is located southwest of the city and is spreading rapidly to the northeast.

What You Should Do

Residents in the affected zones must LEAVE IMMEDIATELY to avoid injury or death. Emergency management officials stress that individuals should not delay to pack belongings. Evacuation should be directed to the south or southeast of the city.

When evacuating, be aware that roads may be impacted by fire and smoke. Never drive into heavy smoke. Drivers are required to SLOW DOWN and MOVE OVER for emergency vehicles responding to the scene.

Expected Conditions

A large, destructive wildfire is currently spreading rapidly northeast. The fire poses an extreme threat to structures, humans, and animals. Heavy smoke is expected to impact visibility on local roadways.

Timeline

The evacuation order was issued at 4:46 PM CST on February 17, 2026, and is currently set to expire at 6:46 PM CST. Residents should monitor local updates as the situation remains fluid and the fire is not yet contained.