Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (March 17, 2025) — Two trained members of the American Red Cross of Utah disaster team deployed last night to Oklahoma to begin a 14-day mission, aiding those impacted by the catastrophic wildfires fueled by recent tornadoes. Red Cross disaster teams on the ground are working around the clock to provide shelter, food and emotional support to those in need.
“The tornadoes and wildfires have left a lasting impact, displacing families and destroying neighborhoods,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “Our teams are committed to helping those affected recover, providing the care and resources they need to move forward. We’ll remain by their side in the coming weeks and months.”
The recent wildfires in Oklahoma have consumed over 170,000 acres, destroying or severely damaging more than 400 homes, businesses and community buildings. Emergency evacuations took place throughout the weekend as fire conditions worsened due to high winds, dry weather and soaring temperatures. Tragically, the disaster has resulted in four lives lost and more than 140 injuries.
The team deployed from the Red Cross of Utah includes Jim Erickson, Senior Community Disaster Program Manager in Salt Lake City, and volunteer Stacey Petersen from Payson, Utah. Petersen, a seasoned volunteer, has served on three prior disaster relief missions.
Red Cross Assisting in Missouri and Mississippi
Missouri and Mississippi were hit hard by multiple tornadoes that destroyed entire neighborhoods. Red Cross staff and volunteers from across the country are on the ground in these states, providing critical assistance. Volunteers are assessing residential damage in the hardest-hit areas and distributing essential supplies, including meals, snacks, water, blankets, tarps, cleaning kits and more. These efforts will help identify the specific support families need in the days and weeks ahead as they begin to recover.
Growing Need for Disaster Preparedness
Last year, the U.S. experienced 27 weather and climate disasters with damages exceeding $1 billion each, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This followed a record 28 billion-dollar disasters in 2023. Increasingly frequent and intense weather events highlight the urgent need for stronger disaster preparedness and response efforts.
Red Cross volunteers have been at the forefront of disaster relief efforts, delivering shelter, meals and emergency assistance to communities devastated by hurricanes, storms, wildfires and floods. Over the past four decades (1980–2022), the U.S. averaged eight major disasters per year, but the increase in recent years highlights an urgent need for continued support.
Join the Red Cross Team
Red Cross disaster volunteers receive training to respond to local emergencies like home fires, providing critical immediate support on-site or remotely. With additional experience and training, volunteers can also deploy to larger emergencies nationwide. Visit redcross.org/DAT to learn more about disaster response opportunities.
Every day, Red Cross volunteers make a difference in their communities. From supporting disaster victims to donating blood or teaching lifesaving skills, they play vital roles in helping others. Find a role that suits you by exploring volunteer opportunities at redcross.org/volunteer.
How You Can Help
Support the American Red Cross Disaster Relief efforts today. Your contributions help prepare for, respond to and assist in recovery from disasters of all sizes. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
