Emergency crews mobilized across Texas to respond to increasing wildfire threats in the western regions of the state

Texas – Governor Greg Abbott has taken proactive measures to prepare Texas for an increased wildfire threat expected to impact the western regions of the state this week. The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) has been directed to activate critical state wildfire response resources to support local communities facing heightened fire risks.

Governor Urges Texans to Stay Vigilant

“Texas stands ready to deploy all necessary resources to support local communities as they prepare for increased wildfire risk in West Texas,” said Governor Abbott. “Hot and dry conditions are set to impact West Texas communities from the Far West to the Hill Country. These conditions increase the potential for wildfires to start this week. Texans are urged to limit activities that could create sparks, follow instructions from state and local officials, and take precautions to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.”

According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, dry conditions will persist throughout the week, with very high to extreme fire weather conditions expected in the Far West and Big Bend regions. Other parts of the state, including the Panhandle, South Plains, Permian Basin, and portions of the Hill Country, are also forecasted to experience high wildfire risk.

State Emergency Resources Activated

To ensure a swift and effective response to any wildfires that may arise, the Governor has activated the following emergency response resources:

• Texas A&M Forest Service: Deployment of state and local firefighters, support personnel, fire engines, bulldozers, and motor graders. Federally contracted firefighting aircraft, including large air tankers, single-engine air tankers for retardant drops, air attack platforms for surveillance, and helicopters equipped with firefighting capabilities.
• Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force): Wildfire Support Packages consisting of medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles to provide emergency medical assistance.

These resources are being strategically positioned to assist with local wildfire response efforts, ensuring that personnel and equipment can be deployed rapidly in case of an emergency.

Texans Encouraged to Take Preventative Measures

State officials are urging all Texans to take wildfire prevention seriously and implement safety measures to reduce the risk of fires. Recommendations include:

• Avoiding activities that could generate sparks, such as outdoor burning or using equipment that creates heat.
• Creating an emergency plan in case evacuation is necessary.
• Following instructions from emergency response officials and local authorities.
• Keeping emergency supplies, including water, food, and important documents, readily accessible.

Texans can visit TexasReady.gov and tfsweb.tamu.edu for additional wildfire safety tips, emergency preparedness guidelines, and real-time updates on fire conditions.

As the wildfire season intensifies, officials emphasize the importance of public cooperation in preventing the outbreak and spread of fires across the state.