Governor Abbott issues a disaster declaration for 143 Texas counties as wildfire danger increases

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has issued a disaster declaration and deployed state firefighting resources as wildfire danger increases across the state.

The declaration applies to 143 counties across Texas. The following districts belong to our area:

• Atascosa

• Bandera

• Bexar

• Blanco

• Comal

• DeWitt

• Frio

• Gillespie

• Goliad

• Gonzalez

• Guadalupe

• hay

• Karnes

• Kendall

• Lavaca

• Medina

• Wilson

According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, drought conditions are contributing to an increased risk of wildfires across Texas. The service has raised the wildfire preparedness level to Level 3 in case gusty winds increase the risk of a wildfire.

“Texans should take precautions, follow guidance from state and local officials, and limit activities that could cause a spark,” Abbott said.

According to a news release, more than 80 wildfires have burned more than 5,000 acres across the state in the past week.

More than 200 firefighters, support personnel and equipment are ready to respond wherever a wildfire might arise.

There are several steps you can take to prevent a wildfire from starting. This includes:

• Avoid parking vehicles in tall, dry grass

• Keep water handy, especially when working with machinery outdoors

• Do not let the chains drag on the ground

• Do not throw cigarette butts outside

A complete list of wildfire prevention can be found here.