Texas panhandle prairie wildfire
Credit: wajell/BigStock Photo ID: 287456938

Wildfires rage through Texas, affecting homes and halting nuclear facility operations

Texas firefighters worked feverishly to contain fast-moving wildfires driven by unseasonably dry conditions and persistent red flag winds in the Texas Panhandle.

Jim Vertuno reports for the Associated Press.


In short:

  • Wildfires, fueled by strong winds and warm temperatures, have caused evacuations and power outages in the Texas Panhandle.
  • The Pantex Plant, a key U.S. nuclear weapons facility, temporarily ceased operations due to the fires.
  • Governor Greg Abbott declared a disaster in 60 counties as efforts to contain the blazes continue.

Key quote: 

"Texans are urged to limit activities that could create sparks and take precautions to keep their loved ones safe."

— Texas governor Greg Abbott

Why this matters: 

Wildfires are erupting with increasing frequency and intensity as a consequence of climate change, posing significant risks to public safety, infrastructure, and the environment. A changing climate and freakish weather are driving a growing need for a culture of warning and safety.

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