West Texas Mobilizes Resources as Wildfire Threat Rises Amid Arctic Blast

Texas struggles with a second wave of Arctic temperatures; the western part deals with a different issue: increased wildfire risk. The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) declared on Friday the use of state resources to fight possible wildfires in the West Texas, Panhandle, and Permian Basin areas.

Ideal circumstances for wildfire development have come from dry, dormant grasses and wind gusts surpassing 55 miles per hour. "The deployment of wildfire resources across Texas underscores our commitment to protecting lives and property during this heightened wildfire threat,’ said TDEM Chief Nim Kidd."

The Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System, operated under the Texas A&M Forest Service, has been turned on to mitigate the risk. Among the resources are nine federally contracted firefighting aircraft, fire engines, bulldozers, motor graders, and strike squads of firefighters.

As the state strives to minimize wildfire damage during this demanding period, officials advise people living in sensitive areas to remain alert and follow local safety measures.

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