Historic Smokehouse Wild Fire Scorches Million Acres in Texas

Clear Facts

• The Smokehouse Creek fire, one of several wildfires currently burning in the Texas Panhandle, has become the largest in Texas history, scorching over 1 million acres of land.
• Two people have died in the fires, thousands of livestock have been lost, and many homes and other buildings have been destroyed.
• Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a disaster declaration for 60 counties due to the wildfires.

The Texas Panhandle is currently grappling with several wildfires, the most devastating of which is the Smokehouse Creek fire. This fire, which has been burning since Monday, has now become the largest in the state’s history, having consumed over 1 million acres of land in Texas and 31,500 acres in Oklahoma.

Emergency crews are struggling to contain the fire, which has wreaked havoc across Texas cattle country. The fires have claimed the lives of two people so far, and ranchers have been hit hard, losing thousands of livestock. Many more animals are likely to be euthanized. The fires have also destroyed many homes and other buildings.

The historic Turkey Track ranch in Texas is among the properties severely affected by the wildfires. The ranch owners estimate that at least 80% of their land has been lost to the fires.

“The loss of livestock, crops, and wildlife, as well as ranch fencing and other infrastructure throughout our property as well as other ranches and homes across the region is, we believe, unparalleled in our history,” the ranch said in a statement.

The Texas Panhandle is a significant region for the state’s cattle industry, housing approximately 85% of Texas’ cattle herds, which equates to over 10 million head of livestock. This was confirmed by state agriculture commissioner Sid Miller in an interview with The New York Times.

“There are millions of cattle out there, with some towns comprising more cattle than people,” Miller told The Wall Street Journal. “The losses could be catastrophic for those counties. Farmers and ranchers are losing everything.”

Videos circulating on social media depict the severity of the Texas wildfires, with footage showing miles of land engulfed in flames and dark smoke. As of Thursday afternoon, fire officials reported that the Smokehouse Fire was just 3% contained.

Sean Dugan of the Texas A&M Forest Service explained to CBS News that the primary fuel for these fires is dried grass, although in some areas, heavier fuel like trees and brush can also contribute to the fires’ spread.

In response to the escalating situation, Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration for 60 counties on Tuesday.

Clear Thoughts (op-ed)

The wildfires ravaging the Texas Panhandle are a stark reminder of the brutal reality of nature and its impact on our communities, particularly the agricultural sector. Texans are facing an unprecedented disaster, and it’s essential to acknowledge the devastating consequences.

Losses of life, property, and livelihoods in the agricultural community will reverberate throughout the entire state. As ranchers grapple with the destruction of their herds and land, the effects will undoubtedly be felt in the economy and food supply chain. It’s crucial that we rally together to support our fellow Americans in their time of need.

Governor Greg Abbott’s disaster declaration is a necessary first step, but it’s up to all of us to ensure that our fellow Texans receive the aid and support they require. Let’s not forget the importance of community and unity in the face of adversity.

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