The Latest On The Wildfires Ravaging The Panhandle

SAN ANGELO, TX - The Texas A&M Forest Service reports three major wildfires wreaking havoc across the Texas Panhandle: Smokehouse Creek, Windy Deuce, and Grape Vine Creek. 

Originating on February 26, these blazes have consumed over a million acres of land. 

We reported earlier this week that the second Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System crew from San Angelo headed to the panhandle on Feb. 29. 

Stats from the latest Texas A&M Forest Service report: 

Smokehouse Creek Fire:

Current Size: 1,075,000 Acres
Current Containment: 15%
Location: Origin 1 mile N. of Stinnett, TX
Start Date: February 26, 2024
Cause: Under Investigation
Resources Assigned:

• Total Personnel: 108
• Engines: 29
• Dozers: 7

Windy Deuce Fire:

Current Size: 142,000 Acres
Current Containment: 55%
Location: Masterson to Fritch City, TX
Start Date: February 26, 2024
Cause: Under Investigation
Resources Assigned:

• Total Personnel: 34
• Engines: 7
• Dozers: 2

Grape Vine Creek Fire:

Current Size: 30,000 Acres
Current Containment: 60%
Location: SW and East of Lefors, TX
Start Date: February 26, 2024
Cause: Under Investigation
Resources Assigned:

• Total Personnel: 1 Branch Director

WEATHER and FIRE BEHAVIOR:

High temperatures in the lower 70s, winds from the SW at 10-20 mph, and relative humidity dropping into the mid-teens are anticipated. Fire potential is heightened, with a potential speed of 1-2 mph, burning 250 to 500 acres an hour. A Fire Weather Watch is in effect from noon on Saturday, with weekend winds gusting up to 40 mph and relative humidity as low as 9-11 percent.

MAJOR CLOSURES:

No road closures are in place as of now. For updates, refer to local sheriff’s websites.

BURN BANS:

Check the Texas counties under burn bans at TexasBurnBans.

FIRE INFORMATION LINE:

In response to the situation, a dedicated Fire Information Line has been established: (806) 370-2179 (8 a.m.-8 p.m.). For further assistance, email: [email protected]. 

TO HELP PREVENT WILDFIRES: 

• Avoid parking and idling in tall, dry grass. Catalytic converters can get hot enough to ignite the grass under a vehicle.
• Ensure chains and other metal parts aren’t dragging from your vehicle — they throw sparks.
• Avoid placing your grill near flammable vegetation or materials; never leave your grill unattended; ensure coals are completely extinguished when you are done.