Fort Sill Releases Update Regarding Active Wildfire East of Lawton

If you've noticed a massive bellow of smoke east of Lawton the past few days, you may have guessed that the fire was a prescribed burn on Fort Sill. After all, it isn't uncommon for officials to do so, but it does seem a little late in the winter for officials to be conducting one.

However, Fort Sill Fire & Emergency Services confirmed that the burn is not a prescribed fire. Instead, they are actively fighting a wildfire. Luckily, reports say the fire isn't endangering any facilities or personnel.

Here is the official update from the U.S. Army Garrison Fort Sill Facebook.

Officials confirm wildfire in Arbuckle area on Fort Sill.

The official statement from U.S. Army Garrison reads:

"Fort Sill Fire and Emergency Services is currently managing an active wildfire in the Arbuckle area. This is NOT a prescribed burn.

 

Residents southeast of Fort Sill may notice smoke throughout the day as suppression and containment operations continue. Fire crews remain on scene monitoring conditions, reinforcing containment lines, and working to prevent further spread.

 

There is no immediate threat to facilities or personnel, and operations are progressing as planned. Increased humidity later today is expected to assist firefighting efforts.

 

We appreciate the community's patience and will continue to provide updates as conditions change."

The fire has seemed to die down gradually, but has burned consistently since Thursday, December 11. Drivers could even see the glow of the fire in the distance in the late hours of Thursday evening.

Where Is the Arbuckle Area?

The Arbuckle Mountains are a historic mountain range that have a portion of the range on Fort Sill. Hikers and visitors are generally able to hike the Arbuckle Mountains and even access the areas on Fort Sill, as long as they have a visitors pass and/or Real ID. The area currently ablaze is northeast of Lawton, southeast of Fort Sill.

It's important to check the status before heading out to hike any areas on Fort Sill. Visitors can use the iSportsman website to check the status of specific areas. Currently, portions of South Arbuckle and North Arbuckle area closed.

If you do plan to hike in Oklahoma during the winter time, check that you've prepared properly. You just might be surprised by what's waiting for you, find out more on the app.

Get our free mobile app