Devastating Wildfire in Texas: Massive Blaze Consumes 850,000 Acres

The deadly blaze, which is already bigger than Rhode Island, continues to burn in Texas on Thursday, marking the second-largest fire in the state's history. Several other fires in the panhandle region are also causing destruction, with scores of homes being destroyed and thousands of cattle being killed.

One person has tragically died as a result of one of the five large fires currently burning in Texas. The largest of these fires is the Smokehouse Creek Fire, which spans almost 900,000 acres across Texas and Oklahoma and first ignited on Monday.

Joyce Blankenship, 83, passed away at her residence in Stinnett, as reported by her family. County authorities verified a fatality linked to a wildfire, although no details about the victim were disclosed.

One resident from Fritch recounted having to hastily evacuate due to a wildfire, making sure to assist their elderly neighbors before leaving. Frank Probst shared, "Our priority was ensuring their safety and getting them out first. We made sure they were evacuated before we left ourselves."

Reuters

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Probst’s family wasn’t able to grab any of their belongings before they had to rush to safety, he told CNN.

"He mentioned how fast it all happened. When the evacuation sirens sounded, there was no time left," he recalled. "We hastily got into the car and drove away."

Apart from the devastating Smokehouse Creek Fire that has ravaged 850,000 acres in Texas, the Windy Deuce Fire has scorched 142,000 acres and the Grape Vine Creek Fire has destroyed 30,000 acres in the same state. Additionally, two smaller fires have burned 2,500 acres or less each.

A satellite image shows Fritch, Texas in August 2023.

A satellite image shows Fritch, Texas in August 2023.

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Satellite images show homes in Fritch, Texas, before the wildfire (in August 2023), and after (on Wednesday).

Satellite images show homes in Fritch, Texas, before the wildfire (in August 2023), and after (on Wednesday).

Maxar Technologies

Satellite images reveal the transformation of homes in Fritch, Texas, captured before the fire in August 2023 and after the devastating event on Wednesday.

A significant change in wind direction in the Texas panhandle this week played a role in the rapid expansion of the Smokehouse Creek wildfire. According to Texas A&M Forest Service spokesperson Adam Turner, the wind direction coming from the north created a massive wall of fire moving across the landscape.

While the weather on Wednesday was more favorable for fighting the fires with much lighter winds, the forecast for Friday predicts elevated to critical fire weather conditions developing across the area through Monday. This is due to strong winds, low relative humidity values, and continued drying of fuel sources for the fire.

Although snow was expected in some areas of the Panhandle on Thursday, it was not forecasted to fall in the areas affected by the fire.

Latest developments

• The Smokehouse Creek Fire grew from 500,000 acres to 850,000 on Wednesday, according to fire officials. It is just 3% contained.

Hemphill County AgriLife Extension agent Andy Holloway informed CNN that in Hemphill County, encompassing the city of Canadian, 400,000 acres were scorched, resulting in numerous homes being razed to the ground and thousands of cattle perishing. Agricultural officials stated that over 85% of the state's cattle are raised in the Panhandle region.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott gave the green light for additional state resources to be deployed in battling the wildfires, which included 94 fire fighting personnel, 33 fire engines, and six air tankers.

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt announced the activation of emergency response teams in a post on X, emphasizing the top priority of ensuring the safety of fellow Oklahomans amidst wildfires. A state emergency management spokesperson confirmed to CNN that at least 13 homes have been destroyed.

The city of Fritch, Texas, issued a boil water notice due to the current situation, making it challenging for residents who are without electricity and gas, as stated by Hutchinson County officials. In response, water bottles are being distributed at various churches and locations for those in need.

Amarillo National Bank is launching a Panhandle Disaster Relief Fund to assist wildfire victims with a generous $1 million contribution. In a statement released by the financial institution, it was announced that the fund will provide much-needed support to those affected by the wildfires.

After returning to rescue her dogs, a woman witnessed her neighbors' homes engulfed in flames. The devastating scene highlighted the urgent need for assistance and support for those impacted by the wildfires in the area.

Tyler McCain mentioned that on Tuesday, he and his family woke up to smoky skies over Fritch. Concerned about the worsening fires, they decided to seek refuge at his grandparents' house across town.

Upon realizing the severity of the situation, McCain's wife bravely returned to their family home to rescue their two dogs. As she made her way back, she witnessed the devastating sight of two neighboring homes engulfed in flames.

Thankfully, she managed to retrieve their pets safely, and the family spent the night in Amarillo until it was safe to return home.

On Wednesday, the family returned to their home to find only ash and rubble.

McCain tearfully shared with CNN the heartbreak of seeing his 3-year-old daughter, Addison, cry over the loss of their house. He expressed that while material possessions can be replaced, witnessing his children's lives disrupted in such a way is truly devastating.

Addison is constantly bringing up the topic of losing their home, expressing concern about the belongings they left behind. She has even started asking her father if he will build her a new house.

McCain reflects on his regrets about not taking more items with them before evacuating. He questions himself about why he didn't grab things like Addison's favorite stuffed animal when she keeps asking for them.

An official in Hutchinson County reported that at least 20 structures in Stinnett, structures outside the Borger city limits, and “quite a few structures” in Fritch were destroyed by the Smokehouse Creek, Windy Deuce, and 687 Reamer fires.

Probst, a resident of Fritch who assisted his neighbors and then evacuated, returned to his neighborhood on Wednesday. Sadly, his home, which he had bought just six months ago, was no longer standing. Entire neighborhoods that he had passed on his way to Amarillo were also destroyed. His family will be staying in Amarillo while they plan their next steps.

CNN’s Caroll Alvarado, Amanada Jackson, Monica Garrett, Sharif Paget, Sara Tonks, Lucy Kafanov, Andi Babineau contributed to this report.

Editor's P/S:

The wildfires ravaging Texas are a stark reminder of the devastating power of nature. The loss of life, homes, and livelihoods is heartbreaking. I am in awe of the bravery and resilience of those who have been affected, including the firefighters who are risking their lives to protect others.

The article highlights the urgent need to address climate change. The increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires is a clear sign that we cannot afford to wait any longer. We must take action now to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a clean energy future. The lives and livelihoods of future generations depend on it.