August 10, 2022 | Austin, Texas | Press Release

Governor Abbott today announced the mobilization of additional state resources to assist local fire departments in battling wildfires across Texas. With increased fire potential worsened by excessively dry conditions, the Governor is directing the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to deploy state resources in collaboration with the Texas A&M Forest Service.

"Communities across the state continue to be impacted by dangerously dry conditions that could lead to further spread of wildfires," said Governor Abbott. "The State of Texas is working day and night to provide the resources needed to help support those affected by wildfires. To ensure the safety of all Texans and their loved ones, I strongly urge everyone to remain vigilant and heed the guidance of local officials to prevent the spread of wildfires."

In the past week, state agency responders have assisted local officials with their response to 115 wildfires, totaling 10,242 acres statewide. Two additional Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) strike teams, consisting of 32 firefighters and 10 engines, were mobilized today to support local firefighting efforts.

In addition to the newly activated state resources, the following are currently deployed across Texas:

Governor Abbott recently updated a disaster declaration for wildfires impacting the state to include 83 counties. The Governor also amended a drought disaster declaration to include 227 Texas counties affected by drought conditions.

Texans are encouraged to use extreme caution during heightened fire conditions, including:

Additional wildfire resources can be accessed by visiting tfsweb.tamu.edu/CurrentSituation and tdem.texas.gov/disasters/2022-wildfires. Texans can also view wildfire safety information at ready.gov/wildfires.

P.O. Box 12428 Austin Texas 78711 (512) 463-2000