Okmulgee County Alerts

The Okmulgee County Emergency Management sUAS (Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Team is committed to enhancing situational awareness, operational efficiency, and responder safety through the strategic deployment of advanced drone technology. The team’s mission is to deliver rapid, accurate aerial intelligence that supports informed decision-making across all phases of emergency management—preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation.

The UAS fleet consists of one DJI Matrice 4T, two DJI Avata 2 platforms, and one DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual. This diverse fleet provides capabilities including thermal imaging, high-resolution visual sensors, and agile FPV flight for confined or complex operational environments.

The team operates under a Part 91 Certificate of Authorization (COA) and associated waivers, allowing for expanded operational capabilities in support of public safety missions while maintaining compliance with federal aviation regulations and ensuring safe integration into the National Airspace System.

During disaster response operations, the UAS team provides real-time aerial imagery and rapid 

damage assessments, enabling emergency managers to identify impacted areas, prioritize resources, and coordinate response efforts efficiently. In wildfire incidents, drones are utilized to monitor fire behavior, detect hotspots through thermal imaging, and support containment strategies while reducing risk to personnel.

The team is a critical asset in search and rescue missions, covering large or hard-to-access areas quickly and effectively. Equipped with advanced sensors, UAS platforms assist in locating missing persons and provide overwatch to ground teams. During structure fires, drones support incident commanders with roof inspections, fire progression analysis, and post-incident documentation.

In addition to emergency response, the UAS team conducts mapping operations, producing high-resolution orthomosaic imagery and 3D models that aid in planning, recovery, and mitigation efforts. They also perform utility and infrastructure inspections, identifying damage or vulnerabilities in critical systems such as power lines, bridges, and public facilities.

Furthermore, the team supports law enforcement by providing aerial overwatch during critical incidents and public events, enhancing situational awareness and operational coordination. Through these capabilities, the Okmulgee County Emergency Management UAS Team serves as a force multiplier, delivering timely, actionable intelligence that strengthens public safety and community resilience.