The state of Texas has been battling a series of deadly wildfires for nearly three weeks, with the Smokehouse Creek fire in Hutchinson County becoming the largest wildfire in Texas history. This devastating inferno, along with several other wildfires, has left a trail of destruction, killing at least two people and burning over 1 million acres across multiple counties.
Panhandle residents have suffered greatly from this disaster, losing homes, farms, and ranches. Thousands of livestock have also perished in the flames, adding to the already significant losses faced by the community.
Relief efforts are currently underway in the region, with the U.S. Small Business Administration setting up disaster loan outreach centers for affected individuals in Canadian and Borger. Additionally, a Texas House committee is investigating the cause of the fires and evaluating the response and effectiveness of disaster preparedness measures.
The good news came on Saturday when officials announced that the Smokehouse Creek fire had been completely contained, meaning that crews have successfully secured the entire perimeter and prevented further spread of the fire. The Windy Deuce fire, which burned over 144,000 acres, has also been contained.
The Smokehouse Creek fire started on February 26, near Stinnett, and spread rapidly towards Roberts and Hemphill counties, causing extensive damage in those areas. The Windy Deuce fire, which started in Moore County just four hours after the Smokehouse Creek fire, added to the already dire situation in the region.
As the community begins the long process of recovery and rebuilding, it is crucial to support those affected by these devastating wildfires. The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit media organization, continues to provide updates and information on this ongoing crisis, ensuring that Texans are informed about the public policy, government response, and overall impact of these wildfires.