Governor Greg Abbott has issued a disaster declaration for 191 counties in Texas due to rising wildfire risks. The declaration comes as the state faces increased danger from wildfires, prompting the Governor to instruct the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to mobilize state emergency resources in support of local officials.
“Our No. 1 priority is to protect the safety and well-being of Texans across the state,” said Governor Abbott. “Today, I issued a disaster declaration to provide all necessary resources to communities who could be affected by wildfires. Texans are urged to regularly monitor wildfire conditions and heed the guidance of local officials and emergency management personnel to protect yourselves and your loved ones.”
The Texas A&M Forest Service reports that current weather patterns—including high temperatures, dry vegetation, and stronger winds—are increasing wildfire threats across several regions. In response, the agency has raised its Wildland Fire Preparedness Level to Level 2, which signals heightened fire danger in some areas. Residents are encouraged to take steps such as avoiding activities that may start fires, preparing emergency plans, following directions from authorities, and keeping supplies on hand.
Under Governor Abbott’s directive, TDEM has deployed various resources for wildfire response operations. These include more than 100 firefighters and support staff from the Texas A&M Forest Service; fire engines; bulldozers; motor graders; federally contracted firefighting aircraft such as single-engine air tankers for dropping retardant; an air attack platform for surveillance; and helicopters with firefighting capability provided by the Texas National Guard.
For additional information about wildfire prevention, residents can visit https://texasready.gov/. Up-to-date wildfire data is available at https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/, while general preparedness tips can be found at https://tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
