Wildfire disaster declared in Texas: 143 North and East Texas counties impacted as Governor Abbott mobilizes state resources

Dallas, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott has issued a disaster declaration in 143 counties in reaction to the growing threat of wildfires over Texas. As the state struggles with rising wildfire activity driven by ongoing hot and dry conditions this October, this preventative action is necessary. Should the situation deteriorate, the governor’s administration has stated that other counties could be joined to the disaster proclamation.
To help local fire departments now fighting several wildfires, Governor Abbott has also instructed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to coordinate additional state emergency resources.
“As the state continues to experience a hot and dry October, Texas is deploying firefighting resources to support local communities at an elevated risk for wildfires,” said Governor Abbott in a press release. “Texans should take precautions, heed the guidance of state and local officials, and limit activities that can cause a spark.

The Texas A&M Forest Service warns that the drought’s severity has greatly increased the likelihood of wildfires especially in North and East Texas. Forecasted windy weather is expected to aggravate the situation even more and raise the possibility of fast spreading of fires. The state has experienced more than 80 wildfires over the previous week, which taken together cover over 2,200 acres.
State and local firefighting efforts intensified
The Texas A&M Forest Service and other state agencies have significantly improved their capacity for wildfire response under Governor Abbott’s directives. Along with heavy machinery including bulldozers and motor graders to help control the flames, more than 200 firefighters and support staff have been assigned.
From big airtankers and super scoopers for massive water drops to single-engine air tankers for retardant drops and helicopters for quick response and surveillance, the state’s firefighting fleet also consists of 18 federally-contracted aircraft suited for different firefighting tasks.

Additionally, the Texas Department of State Health Services’ Emergency Medical Task Force is providing critical support with Wildland Fire Support Packages. Essential for providing quick medical aid across the difficult terrain impacted by flames, these kits include paramedics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles.
Texas residents living in the impacted areas are advised to get ready and remain alert as the level of danger for wildfires grows. The Governor’s office has underlined the need of community readiness, including creating an emergency plan and keeping an emergency pack with basic items. Texans should also keep current with developments and obey the safety guidelines provided by municipal and state officials.
Resources are available at TexasReady.gov and the Texas A&M Forest Service website at tfsweb.tamu.edu for individuals looking further on how to get ready for wildfires. These sites provide important advice and continuous updates regarding safety precautions and wildfire prevention.
The combined efforts of state and local authorities are vital in controlling current risks and reducing damage to houses and ecosystems across Texas as the state keeps observing and responding to these wildfires. Governor Abbott expressed gratitude to the emergency management staff and firemen who are front-runners in battling these wildfires, thus highlighting the teamwork needed to protect Texas’s natural surroundings.