As reported by Governor Greg Abbott, state firefighting resources have been deployed across Texas in response to an escalating wildfire threat.
This action comes as dry vegetation and prolonged high temperatures have significantly increased the risk of wildfires in the northern and western regions of the state.
Governor Abbott stated: “Texas stands ready to support local officials and communities throughout our great state as the threat of wildfire activity increases in the coming days.”
He highlighted that more than 200 personnel, including firefighters and support staff, along with tactical resources such as fire engines and bulldozers, have been mobilized to provide immediate on-the-ground assistance.
The public has been urged to limit activities that may cause sparks and to take necessary precautions for safety.
The Texas A&M Forest Service has elevated the Wildland Fire Preparedness Level to Level 2, in response to the increased wildfire activity expected across the state.
The forecast for continued dry conditions and high temperatures has prompted this adjustment.
Over the past week, more than 35 wildfires have burned approximately 3,000 acres throughout Texas.
The Texas A&M Forest Service, in coordination with the Texas Division of Emergency Management, has activated more than 200 state and local firefighters, along with 45 equipment resources, including fire engines and bulldozers.
Federal firefighting aircraft have also been deployed, though recent requests for additional aircraft assistance have gone unfilled due to limited availability.
The Texas National Guard and the Texas Department of State Health Services have also been mobilized to support the state’s wildfire response efforts.
The Texas National Guard has deployed a CH47 Chinook helicopter equipped with firefighting capabilities, while the Texas Emergency Medical Task Force has provided Wildland Fire Support Packages, including paramedics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles.
Governor Abbott has directed the Texas State Emergency Operations Center to initiate statewide wildfire coordination calls to enhance situational awareness and coordination among local and state partners.
These efforts aim to ensure that resources are effectively allocated to manage the wildfire threats.
In anticipation of the growing wildfire threat, Governor Abbott has ordered the reopening of the Abilene Air Tanker Base at Abilene Regional Airport.
This facility will support state and local responders in their wildfire suppression efforts across Texas.
Texans are urged to remain vigilant and prepare for potential wildfire dangers by limiting activities that could ignite fires and following guidance from local authorities.
Governor Abbott has also encouraged residents to develop emergency plans and keep necessary supplies on hand.
For additional information on wildfire safety, Texans can visit TexasReady.gov and tfsweb.tamu.edu.
Governor Greg Abbott has announced the deployment of state firefighting resources across Texas as wildfire threats escalate due to dry vegetation and high temperatures.
The Texas A&M Forest Service has raised the Wildland Fire Preparedness Level to Level 2, and over 200 personnel have been activated.
The Texas National Guard and Texas Emergency Medical Task Force are also involved in response efforts.
Coordination calls will be held to enhance statewide response, and the Abilene Air Tanker Base has been reopened to assist in firefighting operations.
Texans are advised to follow safety guidelines and prepare for potential wildfire dangers.