NORTH TEXAS (CBSDFW.COM) – Forest fires in the afternoon are drawing further parts of North Texas into flames as firefighters are urgently working to bring them under control.
(Credit: Chopper 11)
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The National Weather Service has taken the unusual step of issuing not one, not two or even three, but four rare fire warnings for Eastland, Erath, Hood and Montague counties.
The last time a fire alarm was issued was over four years ago in Parker County.
The largest fire, the Kidd Fire, contains about 30%, while the newest fire, the Big L Fire, is 6,000 acres and contains only 5%.
A temporary flight restriction is in place over and around the Big L fire on site to operate fire-fighting helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles.
The city of Lipan has been evacuated since early today. Tolar and Bluff Dale were also formerly under evacuation orders, but those have since been canceled.
(Credit: Chopper 11)
Other parts of the Eastland Complex fire continued to burn, but choppers attacking the flames from the air were able to make significant progress today, despite the weather conditions. Strong winds made it easy to spread fire, and dry conditions limited water sources.
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Farmers and ranches also worked together and did everything possible to keep each other safe and limit the spread of the fire. Bale hay has been moved far away from structures and trees, limiting the potential damage they can do if they ignite. Some people also offered extra space and trailers to evacuate beasts and other animals that were forced to evacuate.
(Credit: Chopper 11)
Hood County fairgrounds were also opened for beasts, and officials said food and water were provided.
Meanwhile, several tents have been set up for residents displaced by the forest fires in Hood County:
- 1. Christian Kierch on 2109 West Hwy. 377 Granbury
- First United Methodist Church at 301 Loop 567 Granbury
- YMCA at 1475 James Rd. Granbury
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 1226 Ross Lane Granbury
- Camp Crucis at 2875 Camp Crucis Rd. Granbury
- Somervell Expo in Glen Rose has open campgrounds
At the moment it is not known what – if any – triggered the fires.
Conditions today remain particularly dangerous, and authorities are asking Texans to avoid it if possible outside. This includes – but is not limited to – grilling, burning debris, welding, or setting off fireworks.
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