On Tuesday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of disaster due to widespread wildfires fueled by hot and dry conditions. The rapid growth of the fires, driven by dry vegetation and wind, prompted the declaration, which encompasses 60 counties.
In the Texas Panhandle, several large wildfires erupted on Monday, affecting areas like Canadian, where residents were initially instructed to evacuate and later advised to shelter in place.
The Canadian Independent School District canceled classes for Wednesday in response to the situation.
Evacuations are ongoing in Fritch, where one of four wildfires in the Panhandle is burning. The wind-driven deuce fire, as reported by the Texas A&M Forest Service, is currently only 20% contained, with over 8,000 acres consumed.
The most substantial fire at present is the Smokehouse Creek fire in Hutchinson County, northeast of Amarillo, covering an estimated 250,000 acres and remaining 0% contained.
Due to wildfires near its facility, Pantex, the primary site for assembling and disassembling America’s nuclear arsenal, suspended operations on Tuesday night, according to the Associated Press. Pantex is situated 30 miles east of Amarillo.
The company stated on social media, “Operations at the Pantex Plant have paused until further notice.” “All weapons and special materials are safe and unaffected.”
“There is currently no fire on the plant site and emergency personnel continue to monitor the situation,” Pantex later added.
Pantex reported that all employees are safe and “non-essential personnel are no longer present on site.”
Since 1975, Pantex has served as the primary assembly and disassembly site for U.S. atomic bombs, according to the AP. The facility assembled its last weapon in 1991.
The Grape Vine Creek Fire in Gray County spans approximately 30,000 acres and is currently 20% contained.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller posted on social media, saying, “As Agriculture Commissioner, I am deeply concerned about the devastating wildfires raging through the Texas Panhandle.” “Our thoughts are with them during this challenging time, and we’re committed to supporting their recovery efforts every step of the way.”
A heightened risk of grass fires is forecasted for regions along and west of I-35 on Tuesday afternoon, attributed to the warm temperatures and strong winds. It is advised to refrain from outdoor burning.
The Texas A&M Forest Service is preparing for increased wildfire activity in the upcoming weeks.
The Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association has initiated a fundraising campaign to support individuals affected by the wildfires.
“A fire is one of the most tragic events that can impact ranches, and a natural disaster such as the widespread wildfires in Texas and Oklahoma can result in financial hardships and deep impacts to our ranching communities,” said Arthur Uhl, president of the TSCRA.
