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Texas: Governor Abbott Activates Additional State Wildfire Response Resources Ahead Of Increased Fire Danger

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~ In anticipation of increased fire weather conditions in the Texas Panhandle, Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate additional state wildfire response resources. The decision was made today as August is typically the peak month for wildfires due to hot and dry conditions.

Governor Abbott stated, "I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate additional state wildfire response resources ahead of increased fire danger in the Panhandle. Local responders will continue to have full access to state personnel, equipment, and aircraft to protect lives and property."

According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, dry vegetation across large regions of Texas has led to a heightened concern for wildfires. This concern is particularly focused on the Panhandle and North Texas areas over the next several days.

At the direction of Governor Abbott, various state agencies have mobilized resources to support local wildfire response operations. These include firefighters and support personnel from the Texas A&M Forest Service through the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System, as well as heavy equipment such as bulldozers and motor graders. Additionally, there are more than 10 federally contracted firefighting aircraft available for use, including single-engine air tankers for retardant drops and an air attack platform for surveillance and spotting.

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The Texas Department of State Health Services has also provided Wildland Fire Support Packages consisting of medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles. The Texas National Guard has Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters with firefighting capabilities on standby. Other agencies involved in this effort include the Texas Department of Transportation monitoring road conditions, the Texas Department of Public Safety providing assistance to stranded motorists through their Highway Patrol Troopers, and game wardens from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

In addition to these resources, there are also disaster assessment and recovery agents from both the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and the Texas Animal Health Commission available to support agricultural and livestock needs. The Public Utility Commission of Texas is monitoring power outages and coordinating with utility providers, while the Railroad Commission of Texas is keeping a close eye on the state's natural gas supply and communicating with the oil and gas industry. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is also involved in this effort, providing air, water, and wastewater monitoring.

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These resources are being mobilized in addition to state resources that were previously deployed by Governor Abbott to support local wildfire response efforts.

Last week, the Texas A&M Forest Service raised the Wildland Fire Preparedness Level to Level 2, indicating that elevated fire danger is observed in some regions of the state. In light of this, Texans are urged to take necessary precautions to prevent wildfires. This includes avoiding activities that may cause sparks or flames, making an emergency plan, following instructions from local officials, and keeping emergency supplies easily accessible.

For more information on wildfire prevention tips and safety measures, visit tfsweb.tamu.edu and TexasReady.gov. All-hazards disaster preparedness information can also be found at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.

Filed Under: Government, State

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