Texas: Governor Abbott Issues Disaster Declaration, Deploys State Firefighting Resources Amid Growing Wildfire Threat
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~ In response to the increasing danger of wildfires and ongoing wildfire activity across the state, Governor Greg Abbott has issued a disaster declaration for 143 counties. The declaration includes provisions for more counties to be added as conditions warrant. The Governor has also directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate additional state emergency response resources to support local firefighters who are currently battling multiple wildfires.

Governor Abbott stated, "As the state continues to experience a hot and dry October, Texas is deploying firefighting resources to support local communities at an elevated risk for wildfires." He urged Texans to take precautions and follow the guidance of state and local officials. He also advised limiting activities that could potentially cause a spark. The Governor expressed his gratitude towards TDEM and local emergency management personnel for their efforts in preparing for potential wildfire activity across North and East Texas.

According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, drought conditions from a torrid October are contributing to an increased risk for wildfire activity across North and East Texas. In addition, upcoming windy conditions will further escalate the potential for wildfires across the state. The Wildland Fire Preparedness Level has been raised to Level 3 by the Texas A&M Forest Service, indicating that several regions of the state are currently impacted by wildfire activity due to drought, dry vegetation, or frequent fire weather events. In just one week, over 80 wildfires have burned more than 2,200 acres in various parts of Texas.

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In response to Governor Abbott's directive, TDEM has activated various state firefighting resources to aid in ongoing wildfire response operations. This includes over 200 firefighters and support personnel from the Texas A&M Forest Service, as well as heavy equipment such as bulldozers and motor graders. Additionally, TIFMAS strike teams consisting of over 115 firefighters and more than 35 fire engines have been deployed. Furthermore, there are 18 federally-contracted firefighting aircrafts on standby, including two large airtankers, two super scoopers for water drops, four single engine air tankers for retardant drops, four fire bosses for water drops, two air attack platforms for surveillance and spotting, and four firefighting helicopters.

Texans are being urged to take necessary precautions and prepare for the potential danger of wildfires. This includes limiting activities that could cause sparks, following instructions from officials, creating an emergency plan, and keeping emergency supplies readily available. For more information on wildfire safety tips and guidelines, Texans can visit TexasReady.gov and tfsweb.tamu.edu.

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