At least one person has died as wildfires rage in the Texas Hill Country, threatening neighbouring towns, forcing evacuations and cutting power to thousands of homes and businesses.
The Smokehouse Creek fire, north of Amarillo, has burned 850,000 acres and is only 3% contained. It quickly became the second largest wildfire in Texas history.
Governor Greg Abbott declared a 60-county disaster and urged Texans to “limit activities that could produce sparks and take precautions to keep their loved ones safe.”
Tonight, the Texas Forest Service raised its wildland fire alert level to three because of the high number of wildfires in the state, including the Panhandle. The level means wildfire activity is “affecting multiple regions of the state as a result of drought, dry vegetation or frequent fires,” the service said in a document. The level is used for planning purposes, but it raises the possibility that outside help may be needed. The document says:
“Texas A&M Forest Service strategically positions personnel, equipment and aircraft in areas at risk. Additional resources, including those from other regions, agencies or states, may be necessary.”
An increase in the number of fires and resources devoted to fighting them has forced an increase in fire preparedness, the Texas A&M Forest Service said on X. He noted:
“The fire environment is expected to support wildfire activity over the next few weeks.”
Strong winds, unseasonably high temperatures and dry grass are fuelling the fires, although it could rain tomorrow.
