Southern Plains Wildfires

Overview

In mid-February 2026, extreme winds gusting over 65 mph combined with severe drought conditions to spark multiple large wildfires across the southern Plains. The largest, the Ranger Road Fire, burned 283,283 acres across Oklahoma and Kansas and traveled 65 miles, forcing the evacuation of more than 11,000 people, including the entire town of Tyrone. FEMA approved three Fire Management Assistance Grants for Oklahoma. Additional fires including the Buck Horn Fire and Dibble Creek Fire caused extensive damage to agricultural land and infrastructure. The fires devastated cattle ranches, destroying fencing, barns, and equipment. The Red Cross opened shelters and provided evacuation support, meals, and emergency supplies to displaced families.