Wildfires Sweep Through The Texas Panhandle – Including The Largest In State History

I hate to share bad news, but there’s something devastating going on in Texas right now. Wildfires are raging in the Panhandle, including one fire that became the largest in our state’s history in just three days. Here are all the key facts to know about the current wildfires in Texas.

There are currently five active wildfires burning in the Texas Panhandle, including the Smokehouse Creek Fire, which is now the largest wildfire in state history. The fire ignited on Monday, February 26 and has since scorched over a million acres.

Strong winds, dry grass, and unseasonably warm temperatures created a perfect storm for the fire to spread at a rapid pace. At least one person is dead as a result of the blaze, and thousands more are without power.

Governor Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration for 60 counties. This allows state agencies to mobilize and bring needed resources and aid to affected areas.

Several counties were under mandatory evacuation orders, while residents of other counties could choose whether to leave or not. Some Oklahomans also had to evacuate after the fire crossed state lines on Tuesday.

Even the Pantex Plant in Carson County - the main nuclear weapons facility in the U.S. - was briefly evacuated on Tuesday.

Homes have been reduced to rubble, and residents feared for their lives as the world around them went up in flames.

Getting out safely was a race against time for many who had to scramble to escape the flames before their towns were completely encircled in a ring of fire.

As of Wednesday, February 28, the Smokehouse Creek Fire was just 3% contained. Fortunately, however, firefighters have been able to make significant progress on the other, smaller fires.

Texas is no stranger to natural disasters, but it’s still just as heartbreaking when one occurs. My thoughts are with all those affected - especially the family of the deceased.

Did you know about these wildfires in Texas? Click the link below for more of the worst natural disasters Texas has ever seen. Check out Parks Project to help support national parks all over the U.S. and do your part in protecting nature.

The 10 Most Horrific Tragedies and Natural Disasters In Texas History