Now the largest wildfire in Texas history, the Smokehouse Creek Fire in Hutchinson County has burned a total of 1,075,000 acres across Texas and Oklahoma and is 3% contained as of February 29.
Since Sunday, February 25, Texas A&M Forest Service has responded to 56 wildfires burning more than 1,256,328 acres.
As of Thursday, February 29, there have been three additional active wildfires in the Texas Panhandle: the Grape Vine Creek Fire in Gray County at 30,000 acres and 60% contained; the Windy Deuce Fire in Moore County at 142,000 acres and 50% contained; and the Magenta Fire in Oldham County at 3,300 acres and 85% contained.
It was also reported that temperature drops, light snow and rain allowed emergency responders to gain a better grasp of the fire during the cold front that moved through the area Wednesday evening into Thursday. However, temperatures and winds were expected to pick back up Friday.
It has also been reported that two fatalities have come of the large wildfire.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, one of the victims was a female truck driver from Amarillo who was driving through Hemphill County on Tuesday afternoon. The woman, identified as Cindy Owen, exited her vehicle, which was surrounded by fire and was burned. Emergency medical services transferred Owen to Oklahoma to receive care but she died Wednesday morning.
The second individual was identified as 83-year-old Joyce Blankenship of Hutchinson County.
The cities of Canadian, Fritch and Glazier on Tuesday ordered nearly 5,000 residents to evacuate or shelter in place.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department had stated that the wildfires have burned over 98% of the Gene Howe Wildlife Management Area, an area of over 5,000 acres located along the Canadian River in the Northern Rolling Plains of Hemphill County.
According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, the potential for wildfire activity will increase again for the Plains region Saturday and Sunday due to strong winds and dry fuels.
“Strong winds and warm temperatures have resulted in grasses drying across many portions of Texas,” said Wes Moorehead, Texas A&M Forest Service Fire Chief. “As firefighters continue to suppress active fires, we urge Texans to be cautious with any outdoor activity that may cause a spark.”
Areas with dry grass may support wildfire activity due to accidental ignitions from activities that cause a spark, including fireworks.
As Texans make plans to celebrate Texas Independence Day March 2, they should use extreme caution when using fireworks or any other outdoor activity.
Approximately 90% of wildfires are caused by humans and their activities, and holidays and celebrations can pose an increased risk of fire starts.