Wildfire Risks Rise In West Texas Amid Severe Weather Elsewhere

Severe weather continues to hammer parts of Texas, and now it’s getting serious. Greg Abbott has issued a disaster declaration for three North Texas counties, Lamar, Parker, and Wise, after powerful storms brought damaging winds, heavy rain, and possible tornadoes. And officials say more counties could be added as conditions change.

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State emergency crews are already mobilized, with search-and-rescue teams, helicopters, and road crews ready to respond. Damage assessments are underway, and Texans impacted by storms are being urged to report what they’ve experienced through the state’s iSTAT survey system to help determine if federal disaster assistance is needed.

Texas Storm Threats Continue To Expand

According to the National Weather Service, large portions of North and East Texas could continue seeing severe storms capable of producing hail, flash flooding, and tornadoes over the next several days.

But here’s what really caught my attention.

West Texas Faces A Different Danger

While storms bring rain and lightning, much of West Texas remains dry, and that’s a dangerous combination. Lightning strikes in dry areas can easily spark wildfires, and we’ve already seen that happen across parts of the state.

As someone certified through the National Weather Service and who’s spent time storm chasing, I can tell you this: it only takes one strike in the wrong place.

Reminder For Texas

• Stay weather aware
• Avoid flooded roads
• Have a plan.

And if you’ve had damage, report it. That information helps bring in the resources Texas communities need to recover. This is one of those weeks where all of Texas is dealing with everything, storms, flooding, and fire danger, all at once. Keep your guard up.

Read More: Why Texas Rainwater Collection Myths Keep Fooling Smart People