WALKER COUNTY, TEXAS: Wildfires are once again wreaking havoc in the US state of Texas when a massive blaze north of Houston prompted authorities to issue evacuation orders for residents in its path.
According to Walker County officials, a major fire that erupted in a wooded area along Lost Indian Camp Road on Friday, September 1, has rapidly grown, covering a staggering 1,200 acres of land.
As per the latest update, it has been contained to only ten per cent of its size, but the situation remains critical.
How many acres are on fire in Texas?
The fire's escalation has been a cause for concern, starting from its modest size of about 100 acres and quickly expanding to 500 acres before growing to its current size of 1,200 acres.
Faced with this dangerous development, authorities acted quickly to ensure the safety of residents by urging them to evacuate.
"The fire in Walker County is an estimated 1,200 acres and 10 per cent contained," the Texas Forest Service said in their latest update.
"Dozers continue to build containment line. Firefighters will patrol the area tonight. Aviation and additional crews will be on scene tomorrow to assist with response."
The fire's has been described as "high to extreme," adding to the complexity of the situation.
The Walker County Office of Emergency Management issued a notice via social media, alerting residents to the "Major fire on Lost Indian Camp Road off FM247" and recommending evacuation for everything within a three-mile radius.
"FM247 is closed both lanes from Pinedale to FM2989. Evacuation recommended everything within 3 miles of Lost Indian Camp Road. Air attack is dropping water," Fox News reports.
Why are there wildfires in Texas?
The exact cause of the wildfire is not yet known, but Governor Greg Abbott pointed out that Texas is currently dealing with temperatures in the triple digits and more than 98 percent of the state is affected by widespread drought.
These factors, combined with the already dry landscape, create a dangerous environment for the rapid spread of wildfires.
Reports from neighbors and local news sources indicate that homes have been consumed by flames and livestock have been evacuated from the affected area.
Social media has been flooded with images and videos showing thick plumes of smoke rising into the sky as the fire continues to burn unstoppably in such a short time.
Who fights wildfires in Texas?
Governor Abbott recognized the seriousness of the situation and directed the Texas A&M Forest Service to activate the Austin Airtanker base at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to help fight the wildfire.
"Texas has activated the Austin Airtanker Base to further assist our brave firefighters and emergency response personnel throughout the state and protect Texans from these wildfires," he said in a statement.
"Additional resources through this air tanker base will provide even greater support to state and local officials as they swiftly respond. With triple-digit heat forecasted for this Labor Day weekend, I urge Texans to remain weather-aware and limit any activities that may cause sparks or flames that could lead to accidental fires," he added.
The Austin Airtanker base will serve as a crucial reload station for aircraft engaged in battling wildfires.
