Firefighting operations are currently underway to combat five active wildfires in Texas. Spanning 1.1 million acres near Amarillo, the Smokehouse Creek Fire, as named, is now Texas’s largest and most destructive fire and ranks as the largest wildfire in the United States in 2024. 

Location and Extent

The fire, which began at approximately 14:20 hours (local time) on 26 February, was exacerbated by winds and high temperatures, affecting the northeastern Texas panhandle and western Oklahoma. As of 4 March, the fire has consumed around 1,076,638 acres and is 15 percent contained. The remaining fires are the Windy Deuce Fire in Moore County, which has burned 144,206 acres and is 55% contained, the Magenta Fire in Oldham County, which has consumed around 3,300 acres and is 85% contained, the new Roughneck Fire in Hutchinson County, which has expanded to an approximate 300 acres and is 25% contained, and the Grape Vine Creek Fire in Grey County, which has scorched almost 35,000 acres and is 60% contained. 

Impacto

Authorities have issued a disaster declaration for 60 counties. Firefighting resources from several agencies have been mobilized by the state to contain the fires and protect communities. More than 100 houses in Hutchinson County and close to 30 houses in the town of Canadian have been destroyed. Around 11,000 people were affected by power outages due to damaged electric lines and infrastructure; water services remain disrupted. Two people were reported dead. At least 3000 cattle have been reported dead since the fire began. Wildfires prompted evacuations in multiple areas to ensure the safety of residents and properties. Road closures and smoke risks are likely to cause interruptions to travel and infrastructure. Investigations are underway to determine what caused the fire.

Weather Conditions

Efforts are underway to contain the wildfires. High temperatures and strong winds have been hampering firefighting operations. However, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) on Monday morning, a cold front is expected to bring with it lower temperatures, which could potentially decrease the fire threat. 

Preventive Measures

Visite los sitios web oficiales de los Servicios de Incendios y Emergencias para obtener más información sobre los incendios activos en todo el país. Siga los consejos de las autoridades locales y evite viajar a la región afectada. Si viaja a las zonas afectadas, lleve mascarillas u otros equipos de protección respiratoria para evitar la inhalación del humo presente. En caso de que se declare un incendio forestal, asegúrese de evacuar las regiones de alto riesgo y planifique el alojamiento para garantizar refugio y otros servicios esenciales. Las personas con afecciones cardíacas y pulmonares preexistentes deben permanecer en el interior, si es posible, hasta que mejore la calidad del aire.

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