Governor Updates Residents on Texas Panhandle Wildfire Response

BORGER, Texas — Governor Greg Abbott held a briefing with state and local officials Friday, providing an update on the ongoing response to wildfires raging across the Texas Panhandle, a situation that continues to threaten communities in the region.

Abbott expressed solidarity with those affected by the wildfires, stating, "The countless Texans who have been impacted by these devastating wildfires are going through challenges that require our ongoing support and assistance as we work together to help the entire Panhandle region rebuild and return to normalcy."

The governor thanked leaders and emergency management personnel for their tireless efforts in responding to the wildfires and providing resources to affected Texans. He commended the resilience shown by communities in the face of adversity and pledged to continue delivering the necessary assistance to ensure their safety and recovery.

During the press conference in Borger, Abbott reiterated the state's commitment to supporting affected communities and highlighted efforts to expand air support and debris removal services in response to ongoing wildfire threats.

Joining the governor at the briefing were officials including Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd, Congressman Ronny Jackson, and local leaders such as Borger Mayor Karen Felker and Hutchinson County Judge Cindy Irwin.

Acknowledging the severity of the situation, Abbott had granted waivers for various state agencies to facilitate the surge of resources to support affected areas. He also directed the deployment of additional emergency response resources to address the urgent needs of communities facing wildfire activity.

Texans impacted by the wildfires were encouraged to complete the Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT) self-reporting damage survey to aid in identifying damages and determining eligibility for federal disaster assistance. The survey, available in English and Spanish, aims to provide crucial information for emergency management officials to assess resource needs and eligibility for assistance.

While reporting damage through the iSTAT tool is voluntary and not a substitute for insurance claims, it helps authorities gauge the extent of damages and allocate resources accordingly. Texans were urged to follow guidance from local officials, minimize activities that could spark flames, and keep emergency supplies readily accessible.

For further information and safety tips regarding wildfires, residents can visit TexasReady.gov, tfsweb.tamu.edu, and tdem.texas.gov to report damages.

The wildfires continue to pose a significant threat to communities in the Texas Panhandle, underscoring the ongoing need for vigilance and support from state and local authorities.