Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to deploy more state resources to address ongoing wildfire threats across large areas of Texas.

"Texas is taking swift action against potential wildfire threats across our state," said Governor Abbott. "Today, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to mobilize additional state wildfire response resources to assist local communities with any potential wildfire outbreaks. I strongly urge Texans to create an emergency plan, limit any activities that can cause a spark, and heed the guidance of local officials to keep yourself and your family safe.”

The Texas A&M Forest Service reports that drought conditions have raised the risk of wildfires in much of the state. Forecasts indicate that high winds, above-average temperatures, and dry vegetation are likely to increase wildfire activity over the coming days, especially in West Texas, the Panhandle, South Plains, Big Country, Texoma, Central Texas, East Texas, and Southeast Texas. The Wildland Fire Preparedness Level is currently at Level 3, which means multiple regions are experiencing significant fire activity due to dry weather and frequent fire events. In the past week alone, more than 80 wildfires have burned over 1,800 acres statewide.

In response to these risks and at Governor Abbott’s direction, several agencies remain mobilized:

- The Texas A&M Forest Service has deployed more than 450 firefighters and support personnel from various jurisdictions along with over 150 pieces of equipment such as fire engines and bulldozers. More than 35 federally contracted firefighting aircraft are also available.

- The Texas Department of State Health Services is providing medics and ambulances as part of its Emergency Medical Task Force.

- TDEM has activated the State of Texas Incident Management Team for coordination efforts.

- The Texas Department of Transportation is monitoring road conditions.

- The Department of Public Safety is patrolling roadways and assisting motorists.

- Game Wardens and State Park Police from Parks and Wildlife are involved in response efforts.

- Agencies such as AgriLife Extension Service and Animal Health Commission are supporting agricultural needs.

- Other agencies like the Public Utility Commission monitor power outages while environmental quality teams track air and water conditions.

The Texas Emergency Management Council is also watching for severe weather risks this weekend in North and Northeast Texas. Residents may face thunderstorms with large hail, damaging winds or tornadoes.

Officials encourage residents to prepare for emergencies by making plans and keeping supplies ready. Resources for safety tips can be found at https://texasready.gov/, information on wildfire prevention at https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/, and all-hazards preparedness at https://tdem.texas.gov/prepare/.

Governor Abbott has previously amended disaster declarations related to wildfires, activated more response resources ahead of forecasted threats, and directed TDEM to maintain readiness for ongoing fire danger.