Governor Greg Abbott has activated additional state wildfire response resources as fire danger is expected to increase in western and northwestern Texas through the upcoming weekend.
“As Texas closely monitors potential wildfire threats, our state is ready to deploy all necessary resources to at risk communities,” said Governor Abbott. “Today, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate additional response resources across West and Northwest Texas in areas of potential wildfire risk. I strongly urge Texans to create an emergency plan, limit any activities that can cause a spark, and heed the guidance of state and local officials. Together, we can prevent elevating the risk of these wildfires and protect our homes, businesses, and each other.”
The Texas A&M Forest Service reports that North and West Texas—including Texoma and the Panhandle—face increased wildfire potential. The threat may expand westward into the South Plains, Permian Basin, and Big Country due to dry vegetation and breezy conditions.
Under Governor Abbott’s direction, several agencies remain prepared for wildfire response. Resources include firefighters from various jurisdictions; heavy equipment such as bulldozers; more than 15 federally contracted firefighting aircraft; Blackhawk helicopters from the National Guard; medics with ambulances; personnel monitoring road conditions; game wardens; disaster assessment agents for agriculture needs; power outage monitoring by utility regulators; natural gas supply oversight by the Railroad Commission; environmental quality teams for air and water monitoring; as well as information services through the 2-1-1 network.
Residents are encouraged to review wildfire safety tips at tfsweb.tamu.edu or TexasReady.gov. Additional preparedness information is available at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
Governor Abbott has taken multiple actions regarding wildfires in recent months. These steps include renewing disaster declarations related to wildfires, mobilizing extra resources ahead of forecasted fire risks, directing activation of state-level response assets, and coordinating with agencies on agricultural resource needs.
According to information from the official website, Governor Greg Abbott has led statewide efforts since his election in 2014. His office forms part of the executive branch of Texas government and operates out of Austin. In addition to emergency management work like this current activation for wildfires, priorities have included job creation initiatives and economic development partnerships.
