FEMA helps fire-ravaged communities

CREEK COUNTY, Okla. - More than 93,000 acres have been charred by wildfires in Oklahoma.

Six days after the fires began, at least 10 continue to burn across the state.

Most of the destruction, nearly 60,000 acres, has occurred in Creek County where large fires have raged near Mannford and Drumright and at least 70 structures were destroyed.

To get an idea of the devastation, watch aerial footage of the damage the wildfires left behind.

On Tuesday, conditions are improving as most of the fires are now small and no other homes are threatened.

All roadways that had been closed due to fires and smoke are now open, according to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.

Speed limits are, however, reduced to 45 miles per hour in the following areas:

• SH-33 between SH-99 and SH-66. This is between Drumright near the Turner Turnpike.
• SH-48 between SH-51 and SH-66. This is from just west of Mannford to near Bristow.

Drivers are urged to remain alert to emergency crews working in these areas.

FEMA is stepping in to help Oklahoma pay for all the resources being used to fight the wildfires. The agency has approved Oklahoma's request for grant money.

FEMA will reimburse local governments, volunteer fire departments and first responders to help them replenish spent materials, supplies, equipment and recoup other expenses.

Red Cross damage assessment teams deployed to Creek County Tuesday. Three shelters remain open for residents displaced by the fires.

• Mannford First United Methodist Church @ 100 E. Greenwood Ave.
• Cushing Senior Center @ 203 E. Cherry
• Lexington Slaughterville First Baptist Church @ 10101 60th St.

The Red Cross is also providing two on-site canteens in Creek County for emergency responders.

There are a number of ways you can help victims recover from the destruction of those wildfires.

Check out a list of businesses accepting donations.