FEMA Issues Fire Management Assistance Declaration for Oklahoma 1170 Road Fire

What Happened

On March 15, 2026, FEMA authorized a Fire Management Assistance declaration (FM-5624-OK) for the state of Oklahoma to assist with the response to the 1170 Road Fire. This declaration was made to provide federal support for the mitigation, management, and control of the wildfire incident that began on the same day. As a Fire Management (FM) declaration, it provides essential resources to prevent the fire from becoming a major disaster.

Affected Areas

The designated area for this declaration is Beckham County, Oklahoma. The incident began on March 15, 2026, and the declaration was issued immediately to address the emergency. Currently, Beckham County is the primary jurisdiction listed for federal support under this incident.

Federal Assistance Available

The declaration activates Public Assistance (PA) programs specifically designed for fire management. These grants provide federal funding for the mitigation, management, and control of fires on public or private forest land or grassland. This assistance covers expenses such as equipment use, materials, supplies, and mobilization activities. According to the declaration, Individual Assistance (IA), Individuals and Households (IH) programs, and Hazard Mitigation (HM) programs have not been authorized at this time.

What You Should Do

Local and tribal government entities in Beckham County should coordinate with the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management to begin the process of tracking and reporting eligible firefighting expenses. Because this declaration is focused on Public Assistance for firefighting efforts, residents should monitor local news for evacuation orders and safety updates from emergency officials rather than applying for individual aid. Residents are encouraged to follow all safety protocols issued by local fire departments.

Source

Information provided by FEMA.