Oklahoma City, OK (March 17, 2025) – The State of Oklahoma experienced hurricane-force winds and extremely low humidity on Friday, March 14, creating conditions that led to a historic outbreak of wildfires. More than 130 fires were reported across 44 counties, resulting in significant destruction. Tragically, four fatalities and 142 injuries have been reported due to the wildfires and high winds. Severe tornadoes swept through Arkansas from Friday evening into Saturday, prompting disaster assessments to evaluate response needs.
The Salvation Army of Arkansas-Oklahoma has mobilized teams to support multiple communities affected by these disasters. In Oklahoma, early estimates indicate that at least 200 homes have been destroyed, with damage assessments ongoing. The Stillwater Salvation Army is actively assessing needs after multiple homes were lost in the area.
On Sunday, three mobile feeding units and response teams were deployed in Oklahoma, providing meals, snacks, hydration, and emotional and spiritual care to those affected. Teams also conducted scouting missions on Saturday to assess further needs.
The Salvation Army is partnering with Baptist Disaster Relief to establish a feeding kitchen in Stillwater.
Additional response efforts include:
- The Tulsa Rapid Response Unit is serving communities in Stillwater, Coyle, Guthrie, and Meridian.
- The Stillwater Canteen (Mobile Feeding Unit) is providing aid in Yale, Mannford, Cleveland, and Terlton.
- The Enid Canteen is supporting recovery efforts in Luther, Chandler, and Wellston.
As wildfires raged across Oklahoma, Captain Andrea Hoover, Associate General Secretary, sent a message to employees on Friday evening, “As we are watching the weather and hearing of dangerous weather conditions throughout the Division, the DHQ Leadership Team is very concerned and praying for your safety. Please do not hesitate to let us know if you find yourself in need of emergency disaster assistance” God is your refuge and strength; He is your ever-present help in times of trouble! (Psalm 46:1, adapted)
The Salvation Army remains in close coordination with Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD), emergency management teams, and other partners to assess and address further needs in both Arkansas and Oklahoma.
Financial donations can be made at www.helpsalvationarmy.org or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY to support response efforts. For the latest Salvation Army disaster information please go to www.salarmyeds.org and watch for regular updates at www.x.com/salarmyeds.
