TX Governor Readies Crews to Fight Fires

news image
Special Stories
11 Dec 2021 8:05 AM
Ahead of the next fire risk in the Plains, Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed the state's division of emergency management to prepare by putting resources into position. These resources will support local officials' response to wildfires if the fires exceed any local capabilities.

Alerts

Fire weather conditions are expected to worsen on Friday, December 10th and Saturday, December 11th as a weather system moves through the region. "The State of Texas is fully prepared to assist communities in the Panhandle and South Plains that are at risk of potential wildfire activity this week," said Governor Abbott. "We will continue to coordinate with local partners and monitor fire conditions to ensure resources are readily available, and I encourage Texans to heed the guidance of local officials and take proper precautions ahead of potential fires." Emergency management has deployed 50 firefighting personnel and 10 fire engines. Another 150 personnel and 30 fire engines are waiting on standby to be deployed, if necessary. Wind alerts have been issued for west Texas and the Plains where we are dealing with the strongest winds tonight. Strong, low pressure will move from Colorado to Minnesota Friday and Saturday. This will create strong wind gusts up to 55 mph. Lots of blowing dust and some minor damage will be likely with association to these winds.

Drought

These high fire dangers exist because of the ongoing drought across the southern Plains. The vegetation is very dry and could result in a fire spread. Conditions are expected to get progressively more hazardous in the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles, as well as the greater South Plains, on Friday. These poor conditions will last through the weekend.

Folks in this area can get more information by visiting www.ready.gov/wildfires for resources and safety tips.

All Weather News
More
NJ Wildfire Still Burning, Rain on the Way

NJ Wildfire Still Burning, Rain on the Way

The Jones Road Fire began in Ocean County, NJ

26 Apr 2025 3:05 AM
Severe Threat Continues for the Southern Plains

Severe Threat Continues for the Southern Plains

More severe thunderstorms will be possible as

26 Apr 2025 3:00 AM
Feeling Like Summer in the Southeast This Week

Feeling Like Summer in the Southeast This Week

The southeast is getting a taste of summer-li

26 Apr 2025 2:50 AM
Severe Weather Outbreak Likely to Start the Week

Severe Weather Outbreak Likely to Start the Week

A major storm system is beginning to take sha

26 Apr 2025 2:45 AM
National Park Week: Get Out and Explore

National Park Week: Get Out and Explore

National Park Week starts Saturday, April 19t

25 Apr 2025 8:20 AM
Big Hail Threat Lingers in the Front Range & Plains Thursday

Big Hail Threat Lingers in the Front Range & Plains Thursday

THURSDAY HAILBig hail fell across the Central

25 Apr 2025 2:50 AM
Cold Front Sparks More Severe Storms Through Tuesday

Cold Front Sparks More Severe Storms Through Tuesday

What's one more day?This slow-moving front wi

23 Apr 2025 5:05 PM