Ranger Road wildfire burns about 145,000 acres across Kansas and Oklahoma

Strong winds drove the Ranger Road wildfire across the Oklahoma Panhandle into southwest Kansas, burning about 145,000 acres and injuring multiple firefighters; evacuations were ordered in several communities.

Strong winds pushed wildfires across the Oklahoma Panhandle and into southwest Kansas on Tuesday and Wednesday, producing rapid fire growth and prompting local responses. The largest blaze, known as the Ranger Road fire, was reported at roughly 145,000 acres and listed as 0 percent contained early Wednesday. Officials reported multiple firefighter injuries and ordered evacuations in several towns while some evacuation orders were later lifted as crews gained ground. State authorities prepared an emergency declaration and requested additional resources as aerial firefighting was limited by winds and smoke. Reported details: - Ranger Road fire was estimated at about 145,000 acres and reported as 0 percent contained early Wednesday. - Officials said multiple firefighters were injured in both Oklahoma and Kansas, with some sent for treatment for burns and smoke inhalation. - Evacuations were ordered in parts of Woodward, Tyrone and other areas; some local evacuation orders were later lifted as containment improved. - Aerial firefighting assets were grounded because of strong winds and smoke, and the state prepared an emergency declaration to request out-of-state assistance. Summary: The fires disrupted communities across the southern Plains, damaged structures in several counties and strained local firefighting resources. Officials reported elevated fire danger continuing through Thursday and noted relief was possible later in the week as a cold front moved in; further operational and resource decisions were being made by authorities.