Texas ramps up wildfire preparedness efforts as Texas Governor Greg Abbott directs state emergency resources to combat elevated fire risks across West Texas during the weekend
Austin, Texas – Amid rising concerns over critical wildfire conditions anticipated across West Texas, Governor Greg Abbott has issued a directive to the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate additional state emergency response resources. These preparations come in response to the ongoing threat of elevated-to-critical fire weather conditions expected to affect most of the state through the weekend.
Governor Abbott emphasized the state’s vigilance in monitoring the situation.
“The State of Texas continues to monitor the heightened wildfire threats that are impacting large portions of the state,” Abbott stated. “Due to the unpredictable nature of wildfires, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to ready additional emergency response resources to assist local communities with any wildfire outbreaks.”
He also urged Texans to formulate emergency plans, limit spark-causing activities, and heed local officials’ guidance to safeguard themselves and their families.
The Texas A&M Forest Service reported that a combination of dry surface fuels, very strong wind gusts, and low humidity levels is contributing to the escalated wildfire risk. Particularly high-risk areas include the High Plains, South Plains, Permian Basin, Big Country, Texoma, Metroplex, and Hill Country. These conditions could facilitate the spread of large, wind-driven fires that are difficult to control.
Moreover, the Texas A&M Forest Service is keeping a close watch on the potential development of a Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreak, which could materialize under the current forecast conditions. The National Weather Service corroborates this assessment, indicating that the increased wildfire danger may persist for several days.
The Wildland Fire Preparedness Level has been elevated to Level 3. This adjustment reflects the significant impact of wildfire activity across multiple regions due to ongoing drought, arid vegetation, and frequent fire weather events.
In response to these threats, the Texas State Emergency Operations Center (SOC) remains activated at Level II (Escalated Response). At the Governor’s instruction, an impressive array of resources has been mobilized to aid the wildfire response effort. This includes over 750 state emergency responders and more than 300 pieces of equipment from over 16 state agencies.
Resources deployed include fire engines, bulldozers, motor graders, and various types of firefighting aircraft supplied by the Texas A&M Forest Service. The Texas National Guard has made available Chinook and Blackhawk helicopters with firefighting capabilities.
The Texas Department of State Health Services has provided Wildland Fire Support Packages, including medics and ambulances. Additionally, Texas Highway Patrol Troopers are patrolling roadways to assist stranded motorists, and other state departments are contributing through road monitoring, animal resource coordination, and disaster assessment.
Texans are advised to adopt preventive measures against wildfires, such as avoiding activities that may ignite fires, establishing and following an emergency plan, adhering to instructions from authorities, and maintaining readiness with emergency supplies. Information and resources for wildfire prevention and preparedness can be accessed through TexasReady.gov, TDEM’s website, and the Texas A&M Forest Service’s website.
Governor Abbott’s proactive approach underscores his commitment to deploying all available resources to support local communities and protect Texas residents from the severe impacts of wildfires. This includes enhancements to the readiness level of the State Emergency Operations Center, broadening the scope of the state’s wildfire disaster declaration, and ensuring the timely deployment of additional state emergency response resources.
