Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of disaster as wildfires continue to ravage several counties, including Travis and Dallas. The rapidly spreading blazes have forced evacuations and prompted a large-scale emergency response.
State of Emergency Declared
Governor Abbott issued the disaster declaration for 60 counties as firefighters struggle to contain multiple wildfires across the state. "The wildfires pose an immediate threat to property and lives," Abbott stated, urging residents to follow local evacuation orders.
Critical Conditions Worsen
Emergency officials report extreme fire danger due to dry vegetation, high temperatures, and strong winds. The largest blaze, burning in Butte County, has already consumed thousands of acres with no containment in sight.
Affected Areas Include:
- Travis County (including Austin metro area)
- Dallas-Fort Worth region
- Butte County (largest active fire)
- Multiple rural communities
Firefighters from across the state are being deployed, with air support assisting ground crews in the most critical areas. The Texas A&M Forest Service warns that conditions may worsen before improving.
Residents Urged to Prepare
Local authorities are advising residents in threatened areas to:
- Prepare emergency evacuation kits
- Monitor official communication channels
- Know multiple evacuation routes
- Protect important documents
Shelters have been established in safer locations as the unpredictable fires continue to spread. Meteorologists see little hope of significant rainfall in the coming days that might help firefighters gain control.
