Stillwater wakes to smoke and uncertainty after devastating wildfires

Stillwater residents are waking up Saturday morning to find police blocking off neighborhoods as the mandatory evacuation order remains in place.

Despite warnings, some neighbors are attempting to check on their homes and belongings. Officials urge them to stay out of the area as damage assessments continue.

According to the Public Information Officer (PIO) for the City of Stillwater, authorities are waiting for full daylight before determining whether it is safe to lift the evacuation order.

Overnight footage showed homes engulfed in flames, and the PIO estimates more than 50 homes have been destroyed. Crews will continue working throughout the day to contain hot spots and assess the full extent of the damage.