Continued three-digit temperatures and dry conditions will reduce the moisture content of plants in the ground, increasing the risk of wildfires this week.
Today, the area of the fire supports the proliferation of large-scale wildfires in Wichita Pute, Fort Worth, Waco, Austin, San Antonio, San Angelo and Abilly. Parts of East Texas could be exposed to wildfires near Athens, Tyler, Longway, Palestine, and Huntville.
“More complications in the fire area this week could be a thunderstorm,” said Luke Canceller, a Texas A&M Forest Service fire analyst. “Extreme fires are caused by lightning, which is caused by drought and vegetation. Increasing wind speeds from local thunderstorms could result in a sudden increase in fire hazards, posing a safety risk for firefighters.
Regional and local resources have been caught in the crossfire in recent weeks. Over the past 10 days, Texas A and M Forest Service resources have responded to 98 wildfires that have burned 17,763 acres of land in the state. This includes new wildfires from July 8-10 43.
Firefighters were able to extinguish a blanket fire in Brooks County (5,900 acres, 70 percent), Spade Ranch Fire (500 acres, 50 percent) in Machchel County, and several wildfires in the state, including a hard castle fire in Bosc County. Efforts continue. 540 acres, 70% occupied) and Deerhead Fire in Baylor County (500 acres, 75% occupied).
The Texas A & M Forest Service continues to monitor the situation closely and has deployed staff and equipment within the state in a quick and effective response to requests for assistance.
“More recent wildfires need more time and resources to cope with the ongoing hot and dry conditions and droughts,” said Wes Murray, Texas A&M Forest Service Fire Chief. “The work of our state and local firefighters will be more difficult and dangerous in these situations, and we want Texans to be wary of any activity that could cause fires and wildfires.”
Complete manpower and additional suppression equipment in East Texas and Amarillo, Beville, Brownwood, Burkeburnet, Chailsres, Edinburgh, Fort Stoketon, Fredericksburg, Greenville, Lubok, Marble Put, McGregor, Merkel, Mineral Wells, Ozona, San Angelo. , Smithville, Sweetwater, Uvalde and Victoria.
Fireline supervisors, command personnel, and highly qualified event commanders are strategically deployed across the state to respond. In addition, 391 workers from 33 states are in Texas to support firefighting efforts.
Aircraft continue to be an important asset in supporting ground-breaking efforts, protecting structures and other valuable resources.
Thirty-six aviation aircraft, including five large air tanks, 12 single-engine air tanks, six air strikes, five helicopters, two helicopters and four helicopters, have been prepared at the state level.
Three striking teams, including 42 workers and 10 engines, operate through the Texas Interstate Fire Assistance System (TIFMAS) and are currently assigned to wildfires.
Be aware of wildfires. Contact local authorities immediately in the event of a wildfire. Quick response helps save lives and property.
For current conditions and wildfires, visit Texas Fire potential https://bit.ly/3kemhbG.
Texas A&M Forest Service does not own any aviation resources but uses federal aviation contracts for all firefighting aircraft at the US Forest Service and Land Administration.
