Texas wildfires: Firefighter killed responding to blaze as state pleads for hay to stem cattle losses
The Smokehouse Creek fire which is now five times the size of New York City
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Cool weather on Monday managed to help officials quell some of the fires as containment levels increased early this week, with two fires becoming completely contained.
But fire authorities warn that increased fire weather could hit the Texas Panhandle Thursday and Friday. At a news conference on Tuesday, Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd pleaded with nearby residents not to start any new fires.
“Over 90% of wildfires are human caused,” he claimed. Strong winds and dry conditions this past weekend exacerbated flames, including the Smokehouse Creek Fire in northern Texas which remains only 44 per cent contained, according to the forest service. The fires began late last month.
The Smokehouse Creek Fire has burned more than 1.3 million acres across the Texas Panhandle and destroyed 500 structures. It’s now the largest fire in the state’s history and one of the largest in the US’ history.
Authorities say it has been responsible for the deaths of hundreds of cattle and forcing evacuations. Statewide, the fires have killed at least two civilians and one volunteer fire chief.
A lawsuit filed last week claims that the fires originated from an electric pole that wasn’t properly inspected, fell and started the blaze.
See it: Time lapse of Smokehouse Creek Fire
Video obtained by ABC7 Amarillo shows a time lapse of the time lapse of the Smokehouse Creek Fire.
In four minutes, the air temperature goes from 75 degrees to 104 degrees.
Donations of hay delivered to Texas panhandle
Donations of feed and hay continue to be delivered to the Texas panhandle for ranchers in need.
“But it’s more than a round bale or a sack of feed,” the Texas Farm Bureau said in a tweet. “It’s hope and faith rolled up tight along with prayers for a better tomorrow.”
SEE IT: Planes scoop water from lake to dump on Texas wildfires
Multi-engine Airtankers (Super Scoopers) scoop water out of Lake Meredith before responding to the #WindyDeuceFire,” according to a tweet posted by Texas A&M Forest Service.
There are also 13 aircraft in Texas working on active wildfires.
How to help during Texas panhandle fires
A Texas Panhandle Wildfire Relief Fund has been created by the Texas Farm Bureau in an effort to help farmers and ranchers who have been affected by the fires.
This program will collect and distribute monetary contributions only, the fund says.
PHOTOS: Destruction of Texas panhandle fires
Fire weather conditions remain in Texas Panhandle
Fire weather conditions remain in the Panhandle and extend across West Texas, the Texas Division of Emergency Management tweeted.
Also included was a list of helpful prevention tips.
Will Texas panhandle get rain amid raging wildfires?
Rain could be possible later in the week, according to a NWS Amarillo tweet. But not a high chance.
“Not a high chance at this time, but we will watch the chance for rain later this week. Could even see a few thunderstorms, especially for the eastern Panhandles into western Oklahoma. Check back for updates to the forecast as we go through the coming week #phwx #TXwx #OKwx”
Cold front to move across Texas Panhandle on Monday
A cold front set to move across the Texas Panhandle on Monday amid the largest wildfire in state’s history.
Officials said until then, however, critical fire weather conditions remain in effect.
WATCH: Firefighters drive through largest blaze in Texas history in terrifying footage
Who has died in the Texas fires?
Joyce Blankenship, 83, of Hutchinson County was found dead inside her home on Wednesday.
Cindy Owens, of Amarillo City, was found dead after she exited her vehicle for an unknown reason and “the fire simply overtook her” on Thursday.
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