The Texas Division of Emergency Management is moving crews into place for the possibility of wildfires. The National Weather Service says dry conditions from the Hill Country to the Rio Grande and Panhandle could combine with wind gusts up to 40 miles an hour for increased fire danger.
"Texas stands ready to deploy all necessary resources to support local communities as they prepare for increased wildfire risk in West Texas,” Governor Greg Abbott wrote in a statement. “Hot and dry conditions are set to impact West Texas communities from the Far West to the Hill Country. These conditions increase the potential for wildfires to start this week. Texans are urged to limit activities that could create sparks, follow instructions from state and local officials, and take precautions to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.”
The Texas Division of Emergency Management has activated the Texas A&M Forest Service to work with local departments in other parts of the state to provide firefighters and equipment. The Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System will also provide federally contracted helicopters and air tankers.
The Texas Department of State Health Services is sending an "emergency medical task force" with paramedics, ambulances and all-terrain vehicles.
Abbott's office urges people in areas where wildfires are possible to visit TexasReady.gov and tfsweb.tamu.edu for tips on wildfire safety and prevention.
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