A combination of above-normal temperatures, low humidity, dry fuel and strong winds set the stage for extreme fire conditions across large portions of the state early this week.
As the Enterprise went to press Tuesday, conditions capable of producing large fires were expected across the Western Plains, including the Panhandle region.
On Tuesday, extreme fire weather was forecast in the Texas Panhandle with relative humidity values in the single digits and 40 mph sustained winds with gusts exceeding 60 mph.
“We have critically dry fuels, complex terrain and higher temperatures in the forecast for that area,” said Wes Moorehead, Texas A&M Forest Service Fire Chief. “These are prime fire conditions, and we’ve staged personnel and equipment in the area to facilitate an immediate response to requests for assistance.”
The conditions could lead to a dangerous fire weather phenomena known as a Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreak, or SPWO. Wildfires that ignite during SPWO events exhibit extreme fire behavior and rapid growth and are difficult to control.
Since 2005, SPWO fires have accounted for three percent of reported wildfires but nearly half of the acres burned.
Last week, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to mobilize wildfire resources to support local officials in preparation for wildfire potential in the Panhandle, Southern Plains, Permian Basin and West Texas. Texas A&M Forest Service staged three Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) strike teams comprised of approximately 50 firefighters and 15 fire engines, seven single engine air tankers, two air attack platforms and heavy equipment such as bulldozers.
On Friday, Governor Abbott called for an additional TIFMAS strike team of 15 firefighters and five fire engines for wildfire response.
For current fire conditions, visit https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/CurrentSituation/.
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