Elevated wildfire risk expected across Texas this week

Increasing dry conditions spark concerns across Texas Plains

Texas A&M Forest Service warns of increased wildfire danger as changing weather conditions impact the state.

Following increasingly dry conditions over the past 10 days, Texas experienced a warming trend this week. In portions of the Texas Plains, last week’s first hard freeze pushed native grasses into dormancy. These dormant and cured grasses ignite more easily and require less drying and fire-conducive weather to support wildfire activity.

“Elevated fire weather conditions are expected on Thursday across areas near Amarillo, Childress and Lubbock, where dry, dormant grasses will contribute to increased potential for wildfire activity,” said Luke Kanclerz, Texas A&M Forest Service Predictive Services Department head.

“A large wildfire with moderate resistance to control is possible, particularly in areas with complex terrain near river drainages where conditions may support more challenging fire behavior,” Kanclerz said.

Human behavior a major factor in wildfires

Nearly 40% of wildfires reported in Texas over the past week were caused by debris burning and equipment use. These activities can easily ignite a wildfire under current dry and warm conditions.

No precipitation is forecast statewide for the next seven days. An unusually warm and dry pattern is expected to persist for at least the next two weeks.

“With current weather conditions setting the stage for increased wildfire activity, we need all Texans to do their part in prevention,” said Jared Karns, Texas A&M Forest Service fire chief. “It is critical to follow local burn bans, properly maintain equipment and take extra precautions to help prevent wildfires.”

Practices to prevent fires

As warm and dry conditions persist, consider the following:

• Always obey local burn bans and outdoor burning restrictions. Do not conduct any outdoor burning, including campfires, until the burn ban has been lifted and weather conditions improve.
• When a burn ban is in place, residents should avoid outdoor activities that may cause sparks, including welding, grinding and using heavy machinery.
• Exercise extreme caution when working outdoors with heavy equipment. Malfunctioning equipment can spark or overheat, leading to a wildfire. Check equipment frequently for trapped debris, and check bearings for signs of overheating.
• Residents should stay up to date on weather conditions and always use extreme caution when engaging in outdoor activities, even if there is no burn ban.

Stay wildfire aware

If a wildfire is spotted, contact local authorities immediately. A quick response can help save lives and property.

Texas A&M Forest Service also provides the latest information about wildfire prevention or the current wildfire situation in Texas.

PHOTO: Flames can been seen engulfing a field as high winds reignited parts of the Smokehouse Creek fire outside of Miami, Texas on Saturday, Mar 02, 2024. (Sam Craft/Texas A&M AgriLife Marketing and Communications)