Smokehouse Creek Fire rapidly grows to second-largest wildfire in history of Texas

The Smokehouse Creek Fire started on February 26, 2024, in Hutchinson County, Texas, amidst adverse weather conditions, and has rapidly grown over the next 2 days to the second-largest wildfire in the state’s history. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared a disaster in 60 counties in response to the wildfire, which has only been 3% contained.

The Smokehouse Creek Fire started on a rough terrain under unfavorable weather conditions on February 28 and has rapidly grown over the next 2 days, with the Texas A&M Forest Service reporting the fire’s growth to 343 983 ha (850 000 acres) by February 28, 2024.

This fire has surpassed the Big Country fire of 1988, which burned 148 263 ha (366 000 acres), and now stands as the second-largest in Texas history, following the East Amarillo Complex fire in 2006, which consumed more than 367 223 ha (907 000 acres).

Governor Greg Abbott’s disaster declaration aims to mobilize resources to combat the wildfire, exacerbated by high temperatures, dry conditions, and strong winds. Abbott has urged Texans to limit activities that could generate sparks and take precautions to protect themselves and their properties.

This wildfire is part of a broader outbreak affecting Texas and Oklahoma, with the Texas A&M Forest Service’s website listing five active wildfires as of the last update. The Smokehouse Creek Fire’s rapid expansion and low containment level have put a spotlight on the challenges of managing wildfires under increasingly severe weather conditions.

The Pantex Plant, located northeast of Amarillo and a key site for the assembly and disassembly of America’s nuclear arsenal, evacuated non-essential personnel on Tuesday night, February 27, citing an “abundance of caution.” By Wednesday morning, the facility announced a return to normal operations, despite the ongoing wildfire threat.

Texas Department of Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller said in a statement he is deeply concerned about the devastating wildfires.

“These fires not only threaten lives and property but also have a significant impact on our agriculture industry. We stand in solidarity with our farmers and ranchers facing loss and destruction. Our thoughts are with them during this challenging time, and we’re committed to supporting their recovery efforts every step of the way.”

The Texas Animal Health Commission said the effects of wildfire on the animal agriculture community can be devastating. “Please keep those affected and those responding to fires in the panhandle of Texas in your thoughts.”

One person has died as a result of the fire in Stinnett, Hutchinson County Public Engagement Coordinator Deidra Thomas said Wednesday afternoon (LT).

The wildfires affecting Hutchinson County and its neighboring areas have impacted at least 100 homes, as reported by Moore County’s Emergency Management Coordinator Tommy Brooks.

Additionally, Thomas noted the destruction of at least 20 structures in Stinnett, several structures outside Borger’s city limits, and numerous structures in Fritch, a city located within both Hutchinson and Moore counties.

Featured image credit: Greenville Fire-Rescue, TX