AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Governor Abbott issued a issued a disaster declaration for 11 Texas counties due to wildfire activity.
Today, the Governor also received a briefing from local and state officials in Eastland on wildfire activity and response efforts.
"The State of Texas is working alongside local officials to respond to these critical fire conditions throughout several Texas counties," Governor Abbott said.
After the briefing, Governor Abbott held a press conference at the Eastland Fire Department where he was joined by the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) Chief Nim Kidd, Representative Glenn Rogers, and local officials.
Flags in Eastland County were lowered to half-staff in honor of Deputy Barbara Fenley, who lost her life while trying to save others from the fires.
"I also ask Texans to join me in praying for those who have been affected by these wildfires, including Eastland County Deputy Barbara Fenley who was tragically killed while trying to save lives," Governor Abbott said. "We will never forget her sacrifice, and the state will continue to work closely with first responders and local leaders to mitigate these fires and support our communities as they recover."
Additionally, Governor Abbott has waived vehicle size, weight, and permitting requirements to ensure farmers and ranchers can get hay to feed their livestock. Also so other supplies can get to those who need it the most.
Hay and feed, as well as a temporary animal shelter, are available at the Texas Cattle Exchange (9009 I-20, Eastland).
Texans affected by these fires can seek shelter at First Baptist of Eastland (405 S Seaman St in Eastland), River of Life Church (1247 E Main Street, Eastland), Myrtle Wilks Community Center (1498 I-20 Frontage, Cisco) and Gorman Community Center (118 S Kent St, Gorman).
Additionally, volunteer organizations are stationed at Siebert Elementary (100 Little Maverick Trail, Eastland).
Over the past several days, fires have impacted Eastland County and surrounding communities in which many residents have lost their homes and historic buildings such as a church in Ranger were destroyed by the fires.
Earlier this week, Governor Abbott directed TDEM activated the State Emergency Operations Center (SOC) and increased resources to respond to elevated and critical risks for wildfires in Texas, including central and southern sectors.
Due to high winds, low humidly, and drought conditions, the National Weather Service state western and central Texas remain under an elevated fire risk.
Texans are encouraged to remain weather-aware, practice wildfire safety especially in areas where burn bans are active inorder to keep their communities safe.
