Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved Texas's request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant to aid in combating the Double S Fire in Hutchinson County. This grant allows Texas to receive 75 percent reimbursement from the federal government for expenses related to fighting the fire.

Governor Abbott stated, "The State of Texas continues working around-the-clock to provide all necessary resources to local officials fighting the Double S Fire in Hutchinson County." He emphasized the importance of FEMA's approval, saying it would help firefighters better manage the situation. Texans were urged by Governor Abbott to follow local officials' guidance and take precautions for safety.

Fire Management Assistance Grants are designed for states and local jurisdictions to manage fires threatening significant destruction. In response, several state emergency resources have been mobilized under Governor Abbott's direction. These include personnel and equipment from agencies such as the Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas Division of Emergency Management, and Texas National Guard.

Texans can access wildfire resources through the Texas Disaster Portal at disaster.texas.gov. Those with property damage from wildfires are encouraged to report it using TDEM’s online damage survey tool at damage.tdem.texas.gov.

Governor Abbott continues efforts to support communities affected by wildfires by requesting additional assistance and activating state emergency response resources as needed.