Historic Texas Wildfire Claims Lives, Scorches Over 1 Million Acres
February 29, 2024The Smokehouse Creek Fire is the largest wildfire in Texas history, burning over 1 million acres.
The wildfire has claimed at least two lives and injured four firefighters, and has extended into Oklahoma as the second-largest in its history.
Climate change, manifesting as warmer and drier conditions, is a contributing factor to the severity of the fires.
Containment is minimal, with the Smokehouse Creek Fire at 3% and the Moore County fire at 30%.
Governor Greg Abbott has declared a disaster in 60 counties and is mobilizing resources to combat the fires.
The National Weather Service forecasts cooler temperatures and rain, which could help in containing the fires.
Local officials are assessing damage to homes and wildlife, while urging caution to prevent additional fires.
Summary based on 57 sources
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Sources
Forbes • Feb 29, 2024
Smokehouse Creek Wildfire: 1 Million Acres Burned In Biggest Fire In Texas HistoryThe New York Times • Feb 29, 2024
Climate Change Is Raising Texas’ Already High Wildfire RisksThe New York Times • Feb 29, 2024
Firefighters Rush to Control Texas Wildfire Ahead of Warm WeatherThe Guardian • Feb 29, 2024
‘Largest and most destructive’ wildfire disaster in Texas torches 1m acres