The Hill Country near San Antonio is at greater risk for large wildfires through Friday due to high temperatures and increased wind speeds.
Texas A&M Forest Service said these wildfires could be resistant to firefighters’ suppression efforts and asks the public to be cautious with outdoor activities that increase sparks. The risk for wildfire activity will remain elevated through the first week of August.
As of 7 p.m. today, the Forest Service is battling a 250-acre wildfire that is 0% contained in Hill County in Central Texas. Nearby Blum is approximately 50 miles south of Fort Worth. Evacuations are underway.
“The #Blum fire is exhibiting active behavior with long-range spotting,” the Forest Service said on X/Twitter.” Crews continue to engage in structure protection with support from aircraft.”
Nobody’s publicly stating the cause of today’s fire but nine out of 10 wildfires are human-caused and preventible, Forest Service Fire Chief Wes Moorhead said.
Common causes of wildfires during summer months are debris burning and equipment use, which includes parking in dry grass and dragging trailer chains. Comal County is under a burn ban.
“Every year, Texans eagerly await the summer months when they can enjoy their favorite outdoor activities like camping, boating or grilling,” said Karen Stafford, Forest Service Prevention Program coordinator. “Unfortunately, these activities can also spark an unintended wildfire. It is important that everyone consider their surroundings and remember that simple preventative measures can keep a wildfire from igniting.”
The public is asked to:
- Check with local officials for burn bans and other outdoor burning restrictions.
- Park in a designated space and avoid driving over and/or parking on dry grass. The heat from a vehicle can easily ignite grass.
- Never leave cooking fire or campfires unattended. Make sure they are completely out by drowning them with water, stirring and feeling to make sure they are cold before leaving.
- When pulling a trailer make sure chains are properly connected and do not drag on the road, a this can create sparks.
- Support suspicious behavior or signs of arson.
- Stay wildfire aware and report one immediately to local authorities. A quick response can help save lives and property.
Moorehead said he has mobilized additional personnel and equipment to assist with response. There has been a recent uptick in wildfire activity.
“State and local firefighters are prepared to respond quickly but we need Texans to be careful and prevent wildfire ignitions while conditions remain hot and dry,” he said.
Others areas included in today’s watch aree North, Central and South Texas, the southern region of East Texas, areas in the Rolling Plains near Wichita Falls and Abilene and areas in the Hill Country near San Angelo and Fredericksburg.
