COLLEGE STATION (WBAP/KLIF) — Texas A&M Forest Service warned on Wednesday of increased wildfire danger, as high temperatures and dry conditions continue to impact the state.
“Since mid-July, wildfire activity has increased substantially across Texas due to expanding drought conditions,” said Wes Moorehead, Texas A&M Forest Service Fire Chief. “Over the past two weeks, state and local firefighters have responded to 280 wildfires that burned almost 10,000 acres.”
Elevated fire weather, characterized by triple-digit temperatures, low humidity and increased wind speeds, will create an environment with high potential for wildfires that are difficult to control this week, according to Moorehead.
The threat of wildfires is expected to be present for broad regions of the state, including along the I-35 corridor between Dallas, Waco, Austin and San Antonio, and extending west to Kerrville, Brady, Brownwood and Eastland.
Regions with increased risk also include areas east of I-45 and south of I-20, including communities near Jacksonville, Center, Lufkin, Crockett, Huntsville, Woodville, Cleveland, Kirbyville and Jasper.
This week’s fire weather is expected to approach critical thresholds and, when aligned with critically to extremely dry vegetation, will support wildfires that are resistant to suppression efforts and may impact populations across the identified areas.
“Texas A&M Forest Service is working closely with the Texas Division of Emergency Management, fire departments, and local jurisdictions across the state to monitor conditions and assess needs locally to best position resources for a quick and effective response to any request for assistance,” said Moorehead. “It is vitally important that everyone be mindful of current conditions and remain diligent with any activity that creates sparks.”
If a wildfire is spotted, Texans are asked to immediately contact local authorities.
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