Record number of wildfires in Texas destroy 7,700 acres and several homes 

Texas is experiencing a record number of wildfires throughout the state as triple-digit temperatures, drought, and high winds sweep through the state. 

At least 24 wildfires have destroyed 7,774 acres of land spreading from central to East Texas and as far south as San Antonio. 

Texas Game Wardens have been conducting evacuations and assisting first responders in response to a wild fire in Palo Pinto County.

Please keep the community and all responders in your thoughts and prayers. pic.twitter.com/SwZPloIOXc

— Texas Game Warden (@TexasGameWarden) July 19, 2022

The heatwave, which reached record-breaking temperatures of 110 degrees Fahrenheit, is expected to go on for ten more days. Experts believe the high temperatures and little rain in the forecast can further spread the fires. 

Adding to the fires, Texas has seen 10 to 20 mph winds, making it difficult for firefighters to deal with the fire. 

So far, no deaths have been reported. Although a few Texas residents have suffered minor injuries related to the fire. However, around 21 homes have been destroyed by the raging fires. 

“The State of Texas remains steadfast in our ongoing coordinated response to help Texans and communities affected by or at risk of wildfires,” Texas Governor Greg Abbott said.

“'As we continue to deploy all available resources in response to widespread fire and drought conditions, Texans are encouraged to remain vigilant and weather-aware to protect themselves and their loved ones from dangerous wildfires,” he added. 

Last week, Abbot renewed the disaster declaration for the 72 counties affected by the fires and for 189 counties that are affected by drought. The Texas A&M Fire Service said that 99% of the state is experiencing some level of drought. 

Texas: Multiple large fires are burning in Texas. The Nelson Creek, Chalk Mountain, and 1148 Fire all burned with extreme behavior yesterday. Temps are 110 and crews/engines are being ordered as far as Wisconsin to assist. Texas could have another big day. 📷: @texasforestservice pic.twitter.com/ZTNu4Cidqe

— TheHotshotWakeUp: Podcast (@HotshotWake) July 19, 2022

The largest fire on Chalk Mountain, which started on Monday, has been reduced to ten square miles of brush, grass, and juniper, according to Texas A&M Forest Service. However, it is still only 10 percent contained. 

To help contain the fire, a DC-10 and two MD-80s flew overhead, dropping 60,000 gallons of flame retardant, reported the Associated Press. 

Texas goes big. Multiple fires have grown to thousands of acres. This is the Honey Creek Fire near College Station. 🙏 to the Substack subscriber who sent this. We talk about these fires plus much more on today’s podcast found on our Substack.#texas #txwx #chalkmountainfire #fire pic.twitter.com/oclg3MM0NL

— TheHotshotWakeUp: Podcast (@HotshotWake) July 19, 2022