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Amarillo Office

Lovell, Lovell, Newsom & Isern
112 West 8th Ave, Suite 1000
Amarillo, TX  79101-2314
Phone: (806) 373-1515
Fax: (806) 379-7176
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Wildfire Update - October 31, 2011

Current situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to two new fires for 116 acres.   
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 19 fires for 235 acres.
• Winds across the state are forecasted to be light which should keep fire activity moderate, however terrain mixed with dry fuels could result in difficulties with suppression of fires.
• 219 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.
• Daily detailed fire information can be found at inciweb.org.

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost):None. 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): None. 

Weather Outlook:  

High pressure will build over the Panhandle from the north as a front weakens and stalls across the central part of the state. Winds will generally be from the south and light across the state. The southerly flow will also allow temperatures to moderate upward about 5 degrees over North, Central, and South Texas. Two more cold fronts will move across the state over the next seven days with one at mid next week bringing another shot of cold air to the state and some scattered rainfall over the eastern third. A second front will arrive in the Panhandle on Saturday. 

Prevention Message: 

Going hunting this season?  Zero in on safety and fire prevention first.  Exhaust systems can easily ignite vegetation, so drive and park only in designated areas and avoid dry brush and grass.  It takes only a few moments for a single spark to start a catastrophic wildfire.  Before starting any outdoor cooking, check with your local fire authorities for the latest information on burn ban regulations in your county.  Please use great caution with any activity that could start a fire. 

Wildfire Update - October 30, 2011

CURRENT SITUATION     

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 1 new fire for 10 acres. 
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 19 fires for 120 acres.
• 220 of the 254 Texas counties reporting burn bans
• Daily detailed fire information:  TFSweb or at  Inciweb W Texas and  Inciweb S/E Texas
• Today's  current weather warnings.
• New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in-lighter fuels; or where homes were lost):  None.  
• Un-contained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels):    None.  

FIRE WEATHER    

GENERAL SUMMARY FOR TEXAS  Southerly winds will remain light through Sunday and increase through Tuesday. High temperatures will 
be in the low 70s warming into the upper 70s by Thursday. A cold front is expected to move through North Texas late Wednesday with gusty N 
winds behind the front and a chance of showers and thunderstorms. Minimum afternoon relative humidity will range between 25 to 35 % today through Tuesday. Overall, fire weather danger will be low for the next several days.   

EAST TEXAS  A surface high pressure center has shifted east of the four state region, allowing for light and variable E/SE winds to increase slightly and become S/SW.  A shallow cold front  will arrive this evening with light northerly winds wind. Other than a few clouds, this front is expected to pass through with dry wind. Another weak front will arrive starting as early as Wednesday, and is expected to bring scattered showers and thunderstorms.  

SOUTH PLAINS   Fair weather is expected through at least Tuesday. Seasonal or below normal temperatures will
cause humidity levels in fuels to remain at a level which will minimize fire activity. 
SOUTHEAST Light winds with low humidity is expected  this afternoon. These conditions will likely continue into Monday. By Tuesday, winds
will increase from the SE and bring some gulf moisture back into the region. The next front looks to arrive on Thursday.
SOUTH CENTRAL Mostly sunny today with clear and cool nights through Monday. Low level moisture will increase Monday through
Wednesday. As S/SW winds pickup ahead of the cold front  expected to move across South Central Texas on Thursday, showers and
thunderstorms are possible in the eastern part of south central Texas.
SOUTH
Light winds an gradually increasing temperatures are expected today and through the early week. Warm and dry conditions are expected
Tuesday and Wednesday as an upper level disturbance moves north of south Texas. As the upper system passes Wednesday night, a cold
front will approach south Texas, although it is uncertain how far south the front will move over this region. There is a slight chance of precipitation
in the east half of south Texas. Moisture and temperatures will rebound Friday and Saturday as another stronger upper level storm system
approaches the southern plains.
WEST TEXAS
A weak cold front will move into the big country this afternoon with shifting winds NE 5 to 10 mph. Light winds are expected tonight with a wind
shift to a southerly direction. Gusty south winds are expected on Tuesday, as a storm system moves into the plains. A strong cold front is
expected to arrive Wednesday across West Central Texas. Isolated thunderstorms are possible.

 Fire Weather Details
defective parts that may cause a fire in your home.   

PREVENTION MESSAGE 

 As cooler weather approaches, double check home heating and wood stove systems for inoperable or 

Wildfire Update - October 29, 2011

CURRENT SITUATION   

Yesterday Texas Forest Service had no requests for state assistance. 
This makes yesterday the first day in 259 days without a request for 
assistance since February 11, 2011

• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 23 fires for 123 acres.
• 220 of the 254 Texas counties reporting burn bans
• Daily detailed fire information:  TFSweb or at  Inciweb W Texas and  Inciweb S/E Texas
• Todays  current weather warnings.   

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in 
lighter fuels; or where homes were lost):  None.   

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 
acres in lighter fuels):    None 

 
FIRE WEATHER    

EAST/NORTH
High pressure dominates northern Texas weather today with light winds and mostly sunny skies. Winds will
become southerly later today and generally remain light through early next week. Minimum afternoon humidity will be
25 to 30% through Sunday, with a gradual increase Monday and Tuesday. Southerly winds will increase to 15 - 20 mph
on Tuesday ahead of another cold front that will move through north Texas

SOUTH 

Low relative humidity is expected today as  high pressure shifts. Winds will be light> Similar weather is
expected on Sunday, except humidity levels will increase. A gradual warming trend and increase in moisture will
continue through mid week. As high pressure moves east and a low pressure system develops in the southern plains.
A cold front will move through through  the southern plains and towards southern Texas Wednesday night, bringing
a chance of showers in  southeast Texas primarily. 

WEST 

Seasonal temperatures are expected this weekend, keeping fire weather threat reduced through the warming trend 
early next week. Humidity levels will drop to the lower teens. Fortunately winds should remain below 20 mph. A 
cold front on Wednesday afternoon will bring cooler weather by Thursday. Fire weather threat will increase on 
Friday as mid level westerly winds will mix with surface winds combining with very dry air, above normal 
temperatures. Humidity recovery is forecast to be good to excellent through the period.

Wildfire Update - October 28, 2011

CURRENT SITUATION    

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 2 new fires for 17 acres.  
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 24 fires for 124 acres.
• 219 of the 254 Texas counties reporting burn bans
• Daily detailed fire information: TFSweb or at  Inciweb W Texas and  Inciweb S/E Texas
• Today's current weather warnings.  

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in  lighter fuels; or where homes were lost): None.   

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300  acres in lighter fuels):  None.   

FIRE WEATHER 

WEST: Surface high pressure will be building over the state today. Early morning frost in the west and north of the state will yield to sunny skies during the day. Clouds over the southern part of the state this morning will diminish north to south as the day progresses. Temperatures will be cool (50s) in the Panhandle to mild (lower 70s) over the Lower Rio Grande Valley. Under clear skies tonight, temperatures will again fall into the 30s across West Texas, the Hill Country and areas throughout the north branch. Warmer and dry in the days ahead this weekend. 

EAST : North flow aloft today over the East Branch will result in cooler daytime temperatures and lower minimum humidity. There will be a threat of a few lingering showers over Woodville and Southeast Henderson zones this morning, but any shower activity will end by late morning as the drier air continues to work south. Expect rapid clearing during the afternoon and evening. It will be much colder Friday night and early Saturday morning due to optimum radiational cooling conditions. The air mass continues to moderate and dry Saturday. This results in a few degrees of warming and minimum humidity near critical values (25 percent). Another shot of cool, but dry, air moves through the region Sunday. It looks dry through much of next week, with periodic dry cold frontal passages. 

Wildfire Update - October 27, 2011

Wildfire Update - October 26, 2011

Wildfire Update - October 25, 2011

Wildfire Update - October 24, 2011  

Current Situation According to The Texas Forest Service

http://txforestservice.tamu.edu/main/popup.aspx?id=12888    

CURRENT SITUATION

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 2 new fires for 2 acres.  
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 40 fires for 662 acres.
• 229 of the 254 Texas counties reporting burn bans
• Daily detailed fire information can be found at:here or at  Inciweb W Texas and  Inciweb S/E Texas
• Todays  current fire weather.  

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in 
lighter fuels; or where homes were lost):     None. 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 
acres in lighter fuels):      None. 

FIRE WEATHER   

Texas Panhandle

A Red Flag Warning is in effect from noon until 7 pm CDT for strong winds and low relative humidity.  Counties in this warning are: Dallam, Sherman, Hartley, Moor, Oldham, Potter, Deaf Smith, and Randall. Winds will be S/SW 20 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph. developing by 11 am today. These winds are expected to diminish around 7 pm tonight. Relative humidity will be low, 10 to 15%. In the event of a wildfire, these conditions would promote rapid wind-driven fire spread.

 

South Plains

A Red Flag Warning remains in effect until 8 pm this evening. Sustained W/NW winds of 20- 25 mph  are expected, as a cold front moves into the region.  Relative humidity of 15% or lower is forecast.  The cold front will move into the region late afternoon,  causing a wind shift to northerly winds.  In the event of a wildfire, these conditions would promote rapid wind-driven fire spread.

 

East/Northeast   

Patchy fog will begin to dissipate around 9 am. Otherwise, clear skies are expected with temperatures in the upper 90s. Winds S/SW increasing as a  cold front progresses southward across  the northwestern part of North Texas late Wednesday.       

PREVENTION MESSAGE 

Tips for safe outdoor grilling:  
       *Place barbecue grills over bare dirt or other fire resistant surfaces away from dead grass.
       *Consider using a propane stove or barbecue grill instead of an open fire .
        *Never transport a barbecue pit or grill with live coals. 

Wildfire Update - October 23, 2011

CURRENT SITUATION   

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 4 fires for 6 acres in East Texas. 
• In the past seven days, TFS has responded to 41 fires for 664 acres.
• 229  of the 254 Texas counties reporting burn bans
• Daily detailed fire information can be found at:here or at  Inciweb W Texas and  Inciweb S/E Texas
• Todays  current fire weather.    

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost):     None. 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): 

None. 

FIRE WEATHER     

EAST: Yesterdays severe thunderstorm complex moved through the NE half of northern Texas. Hail was reported in Montague, Collin, Dallas, Ellis, and Navarro counties. Severe gusts were reported in areas of  Fannin, Lamar, Hunt, Collin, and Dallas counties. 

Today this complex will linger across far eastern sections of east Texas through midday. The rainfall will keep fuel moisture high and reduce fuel receptivity for ignition. Winds will slowly shift around to the N/NE with speeds of around 10 mph. Significant fire potential is expected to be low with the combination of high humidity and  gentler wind. 

WEST: A week cold front in the West will cause temperatures to be a few degrees cooler. Relative humidity this afternoon will be in the upper teens to mid 20s across the area. Winds should remain light and easterly through the day. Overnight moisture recovery Monday morning will be fair in the Guadalupe Mountains and good to excellent elsewhere. This pattern can be expected until Wednesday, when a much stronger cold front will arrive.  

FIRE WEATHER WATCH FOR MONDAY: This notice has been issued for Monday afternoon through Monday evening for the Western Panhandle counties of Dallas, Sherman, Hartley, Moore, Oldham, Potter, Deaf Smith, and Randall. Winds  from the S/SW  15 to 25 mph, with gusts to 35 mph are likely between noon and 7 pm CDT. Humidity levels will be in the mid teens to as low as 10 - 15%  Monday afternoon and evening. Critical fire weather conditions are expected to develop around midday Monday due to the combination of gusty southerly winds and low humidity levels. Winds are predicted to decrease around sunset, with an expected increase in humidity.  

PREVENTION MESSAGE
 

Tips for safe outdoor grilling:  

* Place barbecue grills over bare dirt or other fire resistant surfaces away from dead grass.
* Consider using a propane stove or barbecue grill instead of an open fire .
* Never transport a barbecue pit or grill with live coals. 

Wildfire Update - October 22, 2011 

CURRENT SITUATION 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 1 new fire for 1 acre. 
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 42 fires for 665 acres.
• 229 of the 254 Texas counties reporting burn bans
• Daily detailed fire information can be found at:   here or at  Inciweb W Texas and  Inciweb S/E Texas
• Todays  current fire weather.

Wildfire Update - October 21, 2011

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 4 new fires for 6 acres. 
• The Right of Way Fire in Hardin County was contained at 225 acres.  
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 44 fires for 391 acres.  
• Fire departments reported 15 fires for 206 acres in the past seven  days .
• 228 of the 254 Texas counties reporting burn bans
• Daily detailed fire information can be found at:here or at  Inciweb W Texas and  Inciweb S/E Texas
• Todays  current fire weather.

 New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost):     None. 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): 

None. 

Weather Outlook  

 WEST:  The surface high pressure ridge of the past few days has moved east of the state and allowed southerly flow to return to the East Texas. Out west, a surface low in the Trans Pecos will drift into Eastern New Mexico while maintaining a surface trough down into the Big Bend area. Gulf moisture will be returning to most of the state today, but more so tonight through Saturday which will result in higher minimum humidity except for the western half of the both western branches this afternoon. An upper level trough/disturbance will move across the north part of the state this weekend with scattered showers and thunderstorms generally east of a line from Wichita Falls to Killeen line. Rainfall potential is ½ to ¾ inch along the Red River and less than ½ inch elsewhere. 

EAST:  The high pressure system will move over the Gulf of Mexico and cause a moist southeast flow to become entrenched over central and eastern Texas later today through early Sunday. The relative humidity will increase a little this afternoon and then rapidly on Friday night through Saturday. Low stratus deck and/or fog may occur over western half of the area. The combination of increased moisture at low levels and cooling temperatures aloft will create a slightly unstable environment by Saturday afternoon across Linden and Henderson zones especially western portions for a chance of showers.  A weak cold trough will slide southeast across northeast Texas Saturday night into early Sunday (Linden and Henderson Zones) and across southeast Texas (Livingston and Woodville Zones) Sunday. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are likely during this period producing upwards to 0.50 of an inch towards Texarkana, but less than 0.25 of an inch will be more common for Linden and Henderson and less than 0.10 of an inch south of Lufkin. 

Prevention Message  

Texas remains in a drought status and wildfire danger continues. Please continue to be alert and cautious in all activities which could create a spark or source of ignition and cause a wildfire.   

Wildfire Update - October 20, 2011

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 9 new fires for 295 acres, including one new large fire in Hardin County.
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 44 fires for 516 acres. 
• 229 of the 254 Texas counties reporting burn bans
• Daily detailed fire information can be found  here or at  Inciweb W Texas and  Inciweb S/E Texas
• Today's current fire weather. 

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels);  

RIGHT OF WAY, Hardin County.  225 acres, 10 percent contained.  The fire is burning one mile southwest of Kountze in pine plantation and cutover.  Eight heavy airtankers and the DC-10 flew out of Austin and Longview yesterday and dropped 26,000 gallons of retardant.  Dozer crews and helicopters will continue working the fire today. 

Weather Outlook  

WEST:  A surface high pressure ridge, positioned north to south across the central part of Texas this morning will slide into East Texas this afternoon. This will bring southerly flow and warmer temperatures most of the western two-thirds of the state while East Texas sees lighter winds and slightly warmer temperatures. A weak surface low will move south of Amarillo with a surface trough extending into the Big Bend by afternoon with westerly winds west of the trough line.  Onshore flow will in dew points over much of the region today and result in slightly higher minimum afternoon humidity this afternoon through Friday. Elevated humidity and warm temperatures will prevail over the weekend with a chance of showers and thunderstorms along the I-35 & I-45 corridors. 

EAST:  The cool high pressure system will continue to be in control of our weather through today with sunny skies, light north winds 5-10 mph and very low RH in the 15-20% range. The high will settle into the northern Gulf of Mexico allowing a southeast flow to develop which will import moisture northwest across the region. The relative humidity will increase a little on Friday and then rapidly on Saturday. The combination of increased moisture at low levels and cooling temperatures aloft will create an unstable environment by Saturday afternoon across mainly western portions of Linden and Henderson zones for a chance of showers. 

A moderately cold trough will slide southeast across northeast Texas Saturday night into early Sunday (Linden and Henderson Zones) and across southeast Texas (Livingston and Woodville Zones) Sunday. Showers and thunderstorms are likely during this period producing upwards to 0.75 of an inch, but 0.20 to 0.50 of an inch will be more common for Linden and Henderson and less than 0.30 of an inch south of Lufkin. 

Prevention Message  

Exhaust systems can easily ignite vegetation, so drive and park only in designated areas and avoid dry brush and grass.  It takes only a few seconds for a single spark to start a wildfire. 

Wildfire Update - October 19, 2011

Current Situation 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 11 new fires for 24 acres. 
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 35 fires for 207 acres.
• 232 of the 254 Texas counties reporting burn bans
• Daily detailed fire information can be found  here or at  inciweb.org
• Today's  current fire weather. 

Activity was light yesterday despite high winds across much of the state.  Strong winds and low afternoon humidity values are expected again today from Northeast Texas to Brownsville. 

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost):    None
Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels):  None

Weather Outlook  

WEST:  A deep closed low over the Ohio River Valley today will keep Texas under dry northwesterly flow aloft while surface high pressure ridges into the state from central Canada. As a result, there will be a little modification in afternoon temperatures. As for winds, they will be weaker over the western branches and while remaining breezy over the other branches. Afternoon humidity will be less than yesterday, thus the combination of wind and RH falling below 30 percent will create elevated fire weather conditions generally over the eastern 1/2 of the state this afternoon. Looking ahead through Saturday, it will be warmer each day with moisture returning Friday and a chance of rain from the Coastal Bend and Coastal Plains northward through the North and Northeast Texas on Saturday. 

EAST:  A cool high pressure system will continue build into the region today maintaining a relatively strong surface pressure gradient across eastern Texas. Combine that with 30-35 mph northwest winds aloft and gusty surface winds will be realized. The high will center over Louisiana tonight providing cold and tranquil conditions with temperatures dropping into the upper 30s and 40s. Pockets of frost are not out of the question especially in the Red River Valley. Sunny,  cool and dry conditions for Thursday. A warming trend as well as an increase in RH will occur Friday as a southeast flow develops off the Gulf of Mexico. 

Prevention Message: 

Vehicle catalytic converter and exhaust systems can easily ignite vegetation, so drive and park only in designated areas and avoid areas of dry brush and grass.  It takes only a few moments for a single spark to start a catastrophic wildfire.  Before starting any outdoor cooking, check with your local fire authorities for the latest information on burn ban regulations in your county.  Please use great caution with any activity that could start a fire. 

Wildfire Update - October 18, 2011

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 6 new fires for 28 acres.
• In the past 7 days Texas Forest Service has responded to 34 fires for 224 acres.
• 232 of the 254 Texas counties reporting  burn bans.
• Daily detailed fire information can be found at  inciweb.org .
• Today's   current fire weather.    

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber; 300 acres in lighter fuels, or where homes were lost):    None.
 Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels):  None.
 

WEATHER OUTLOOK 

Today could be a busy day for firefighters, as winds are expected to be extremely gusty across much of the state. Click here for  Red Flag Warnings and Fire Weather Informaiton. 

WEST:  Very dry and very windy conditions will create critical to extreme fire weather conditions generally along and east of I-35 this afternoon and evening. Winds should weaken a little north to south over the western branches later today. Today's highs will be 14 to 27 degrees: cooler than those on Monday and turning cold tonight as winds become lighter and colder air filters into the state. Low temperatures Wednesday morning will range from the mid-30s in the northern Panhandle, along the Red River Valley and over parts of East Texas, to the lower 50s over South Texas. Wednesday through Friday will be dry with light north winds on Wednesday returning to the south and southeast for Thursday and Friday.  Minimum humidity will increase on Friday for most of the state. 

EAST:  A strong cold front racing southeast across eastern Texas this morning will usher in much cooler and drier air. In the wake of this front which should be to the Gulf coast by late morning, strong northwest winds of 15 to 20 mph with gusts to 30 mph will be common, especially over western sections. Although some wetting rains occurred with showers and thunderstorms overnight and this morning, the combination of sunshine and wind will dry fuels out quickly. Relative humidity (RH) will drop into the 25-35% range this afternoon. Northerly winds at 6-12 mph will continue tonight so only fair to good RH recovery of only 55-70% is expected. North winds will increase to 15-20 mph with gusts to 25-30mph Wednesday. RHs will plummet to the 16-22% range, while temperatures will be much cooler with highs of 64-72 degrees. Lows will generally be in the 40s.  

Prevention Message:   Going hunting this season?  Zero in on safety and fire prevention first.  Exhaust systems can easily ignite vegetation, so drive and park only in designated areas and avoid dry brush and grass.  It takes only a few moments for a single spark to start a catastrophic wildfire.  Before starting any outdoor cooking, check with your local fire authorities for the latest information on burn ban regulations in your county.  Please use great caution with any activity that could start a fire.  

Wildfire Update - October 17, 2011

Current situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to two new fires for 3 acres.   
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 28 fires for 194 acres.
• 230 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.
• Daily detailed fire information can be found here or at inciweb.org.

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost): 

None. 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): 

 None. 

Weather Outlook:  

WEST:  A strong cold front along I-40 in the northwest branch at daybreak will move to a Wichita Falls to Sweetwater to Clovis, New Mexico line by sunset, and then accelerate to the coast by daybreak Tuesday. Ahead of the front, gusty southwest to west winds and very low humidity will create elevated to critical fire weather conditions across most of the west branch. Blowing dust is possible over the High Plains and Permian Basin by this evening. Behind the front, much cooler temperatures and strong and gusty north winds will spread southward through the northwest branch later today and over the rest of the state tonight. Elevated to near critical fire weather conditions are possible Tuesday afternoon along and east of a Wichita Falls to Del Rio line. The rest of the week will be dry with temperatures slowly warming to normal by Friday. 

EAST:  A storm system charging southeast across the High Plains will bring its associated cold front to a line from northwest Arkansas to Wichita Falls in south central Oklahoma by 1800 LST today, to Texarkana-Athens line by midnight and to San Augustine-Huntsville line by day break. South southwest winds will increase to 10-16 mph with gusts to 23 mph across Linden and western Henderson zones and sustained around 10 mph with gusts to 18 mph elsewhere. There is a 20 to 40% chance for showers and thunderstorms across Henderson and Linden counties, respectively, tonight with the cold front.  Windy, dry and much cooler on Tuesday, then breezy, dry and cool for Wednesday. 

Prevention Message: 

Going hunting this season?  Zero in on safety and fire prevention first.  Exhaust systems can easily ignite vegetation, so drive and park only in designated areas and avoid dry brush and grass.  It takes only a few moments for a single spark to start a catastrophic wildfire.  Before starting any outdoor cooking, check with your local fire authorities for the latest information on burn ban regulations in your county.  Please use great caution with any activity that could start a fire

Wildfire Update - October 16, 2011

Current situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to four fires for seven acres. 
• 230 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.  
• Daily detailed fire information can be found here or at inciweb.org.  

Weather Outlook:  

WEST:  The dry, very low RH values, and warm weather conditions will continue as a weak low pressure area remains over the Panhandle today. Light to moderate southerly winds will also continue with gusty conditions at times from the Edwards Plateau through the Concho Valley into the Low Rolling Hills. Isolated showers and thunderstorms are possible along the coast in Deep South Texas and the Lower Rio Grande Valley. The weak low pressure system will remain over the Panhandle region as warm and mainly dry conditions prevail into Monday. A strong cold front is expected to move over the state Monday evening into Tuesday morning with much cooler and drier high pressure building into the region on breezy and gusty northerly winds. 

EAST:  High pressure will remain in control of the weather today. With this high located over the lower Mississippi Valley a general south southeast flow will continue to import low level moisture northward across the region. Relative humidity values will increase 5-10% today over yesterdays minimum readings, but will jump upward Monday as the southerly winds increase ahead of an approaching cold front. Other than a chance for light showers or sprinkles across Henderson and Linden counties Monday night this cold front will be dry. Windy and dry conditions will follow this cold front as it races southward across the region Tuesday afternoon. Breezy winds likely to continue into Wednesday. 

Prevention Message: 

Recent rains have prompted county government officials to lift burn bans in Texas counties over the past week, but the risk of wildfire is still a concern.  Debris burning is the No. 1 cause of wildfires in Texas.  Due to recently-lifted burn bans, this weekend may be a prime time for landowners to dispose of their trash.  Some safety tips when burning outdoors include the following: 

·         Clear a 10-foot radius around your burn pile, removing all vegetation and flammable materials. 

·         Avoid overhead obstructions like trees and power lines, and don't burn near structures, 

·         Wet the area around the burn pile. 

·         Never leave a fire unattended. 

·         Keep water and hand tools nearby. 

Wildfire Update - October 15, 2011

Current situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 2 new fires for 2 acres.  
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 35 fires for 270 acres. 
• 232 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.  
• Daily detailed fire information can be found here or at inciweb.org. 

Weather Outlook:  

WEST:  The warming trend will continue as a weak low pressure area over the Big Country this morning drifts towards the Upper Red River Valley this afternoon. The dry air mass and very low afternoon RH values will remain over the region today with light to moderate southeast to southerly winds with gusty conditions from the Edwards Plateau through the Concho Valley into the Low Rolling Hills. Isolated showers and thunderstorms are possible along the coast in Deep South Texas and the Lower Rio Grande Valley. The weak low pressure system will remain over the Panhandle region as warm and mainly dry conditions prevail into Monday. A strong cold front is expected to move over the state Monday Night into Tuesday with much cooler and drier high pressure building into the region on breezy northerly winds. 

EAST:  High pressure will remain in control of the weather for another few days. With this high located over the lower Mississippi Valley a general south southeast flow will prevail resulting in an increase of relative humidity. A cold front will approach Texas on Monday which will cause the south southwest winds to become enhanced as well as boost the RH. In the wake of this cold front (which could bring scattered showers from Henderson Zone northward Monday night), much cooler and windy conditions with lowering RHs will occur Tuesday. 

Prevention Message: 

Recent rains have prompted county government officials to lift burn bans in 20 Texas counties over the past week, but the risk of wildfire is still a concern.  Debris burning is the No. 1 cause of wildfires in Texas.  Due to recently-lifted burn bans, this weekend may be a prime time for landowners to dispose of their trash.  Some safety tips when burning outdoors include the following: 

·         Clear a 10-foot radius around your burn pile, removing all vegetation and flammable materials. 

·         Avoid overhead obstructions like trees and power lines, and  don't burn near structures, 

·         Wet the area around the burn pile. 

·         Never leave a fire unattended. 

·         Keep water and hand tools nearby. 

Wildfire Update - October 14, 2011

Current situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 6 new fires for 131 acres.   
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 40 fires for 1,456 acres. 
• Fire departments reported 37 fires for 77 acres in the past seven days. 
• 234 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.  
• Daily detailed fire information can be found here or at inciweb.org.  

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost): 

None. 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): 

None. 

Weather Outlook:  

WEST:  High pressure over the state this morning will weaken and move east into the Lower Mississippi River Valley as a weak low pressure system moves out of the Southern Rockies into Western Texas this afternoon. Dry air and very low afternoon RH values will remain over the region today with light to moderate winds veering to the southeast and south. Some areas with the lowest RHs and highest winds may experience brief localized elevated fire weather conditions this afternoon. Several weak systems are expected to move through the region while the warming trend continues with mainly dry conditions through the weekend. 

EAST:  The high pressure system will slide east across the area today and over the lower Mississippi Valley Saturday and Sunday. Relative humidity should bottom out today with still a mainly northeast to east flow aloft, but then as the high moves over the lower Mississippi Valley Saturday and Sunday, a more moist southeast flow will develop which will result in an increasing RH trend into Monday.  The next cold front will move through Texas on Monday night into Tuesday. 

Prevention Message: 

Recent rains have prompted county government officials to lift burn bans in 20 Texas counties over the past week, but the risk of wildfire is still a concern.  Debris burning is the No. 1 cause of wildfires in Texas.  Due to recently-lifted burn bans, this weekend may be a prime time for landowners to dispose of their trash.  Some safety tips when burning outdoors include the following: 

• Clear a 10-foot radius around your burn pile, removing all vegetation and flammable materials. 
• Avoid overhead obstructions like trees and power lines, and  don't burn near structures. 
• Wet the area around the burn pile. 
• Never leave a fire unattended. 
• Keep water and hand tools nearby. 

Wildfire Update - October 13, 2011

Current situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 2 new fires for 7 acres.  
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 41 fires for 1,496 acres.  
• 234 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.  
• Daily detailed fire information can be found here or at inciweb.org.  

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost): 

None. 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): 

 None. 

Weather Outlook:  

WEST:  A cold front will push off the Gulf Coast this morning with high pressure and much drier air building into the region today. The dry air and very low afternoon RH values will combine with moderate northerly winds to produce Elevated Fire Weather conditions in East and South Texas today generally east of the Interstate 35. High pressure will slowly move through the region Friday with dry conditions expected statewide. The warming trend will continue with mainly dry conditions through the weekend. 

EAST:  In the wake of the trough and associated cold front that moved across the eastern Texas region yesterday and overnight, a dry northerly flow will prevail for the next couple of days. Relative humidities will be much lower today despite the rains that occurred in the past 24 hrs. The combination of moderate winds aloft and a strengthening surface gradient will provide for gusty northerly winds especially over western Henderson zone in hilly portions of Cherokee, Anderson and Henderson Counties and southward basically west of I-45 in the Livingston zone. The high pressure system will be over the central plains today and into Friday keeping the dry northerly flow over the area, but by the weekend, the high moves over the lower Mississippi valley which will cause a more moist southeast flow to prevail. Clear skies and much lower RHs is the main message for today and Friday. A gradual increase in RH will occur through the weekend into early next week. The next cold front will likely move through Texas on Tuesday. 

Prevention Message: 

Almost 3,000 homes have been destroyed this year due to wildfire.  Protect your home from the risk of wildfire by a little advance preparation.  Removing debris from gutters, keeping grass short and green, and pruning trees six to ten feet from the ground are simple ways to prepare your home.  For more helpful tips on firewise landscaping and construction, go to www.firewise.org. 

Wildfire Update - October 12, 2011

Current situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 8 new fires for 21 acres.  
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 50 fires for 1,543 acres.   
• 237 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.  
• Daily detailed fire information can be found here or at inciweb.org.  

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost): 

None. 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): 

None. 

Weather Outlook:  

WEST:  A weak cold front is expected to move from West Central Texas this morning to East Texas this afternoon. Abundant moisture will help produce isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms ahead of and along the front from the Red River Valley to Big Country this morning and scattered to numerous activity into East Texas by the afternoon. The driest air with low RH values will remain over the Trans Pecos, Far West Texas and northward through West Texas near the New Mexico border today. The front will pass over the rest of East Texas down to the Gulf Coast Thursday with isolated showers and thunderstorms possible along the Gulf Coast. Mainly dry conditions are expected to return to the state to end the week and into the weekend. 

EAST:  A trough will amplify as it moves east across eastern Texas this afternoon and evening. With good residual moisture in place this trough will supply ample lift for scattered if not widespread showers to develop. The best dynamics at this time will likely move across the Henderson and Linden zones during the midday and afternoon hours and into the eastern Henderson and the southern zones of Livingston and Woodville late afternoon into the evening. Rain amounts of 0.10 to 0.30 of an inch should be relatively common with upwards to an inch possible locally. This is a developing system and consequently may need to adjust the probability of precipitation and amounts.  In the wake of this front a ridge of high pressure will build over the region for the end of the week. Generally clear skies with much lower RHs is the main message with RH readings into the 20s Friday and Saturday. Winds will continue to be light. 

Prevention Message: 

Almost 3,000 homes have been destroyed this year due to wildfire.  Protect your home from the risk of wildfire by a little advance preparation.  Removing debris from gutters, keeping grass short and green, and pruning trees six to ten feet from the ground are simple ways to prepare your home.  For more helpful tips on firewise landscaping and construction, go to www.firewise.org. 

Wildfire Update - October 11, 2011

Current situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 1 new fire for 4 acres.   
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 54 fires for 1,916 acres.   
• 244 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.
• Daily detailed fire information can be found here or at inciweb.org.
• Rains from this past weekend are giving many firefighters a well-deserved break after nearly a year in fire season, and fire managers will be evaluating fuel conditions and resource needs.  The lull may not last long, as winds are expected this weekend and little impact has been made on the long-term drought effects.  Most of East Texas and the Trans Pecos received no rain and heavy fuels remain critically dry.

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost): 

None. 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): 

None. 

Weather Outlook:  

WEST:  Weak high pressure will slowly settle over Northeast Texas as a weak surface trough moves out of the lee of the Rockies approaching Northwest Texas today. Isolated afternoon showers and thunderstorms are possible ahead of the trough in the Panhandle down into the South Plains. Isolated showers or thunderstorms are also possible in East Texas and along the Gulf Coast during afternoon heating with abundant low level residual moisture in place. The driest air will remain confined to Far West Texas and West Texas along the New Mexico border. A weak front will pass over the state Wednesday and Thursday with isolated showers and thunderstorms possible but mainly dry conditions are expected to continue statewide through the week. 

EAST:  A westerly flow aloft will tend to gradually dry the air mass across the region. Residual moisture across northern areas will be sufficient enough for a slight chance of light rain showers across the Linden zone today while it should be dry elsewhere. A weak cold front will move across Linden and northern portions of Henderson zones Wednesday bringing another threat of showers and isolated thunderstorms. In the wake of this front a ridge of high pressure will build in over the region for the end of the week. Generally clear skies with a trend of lowering RHs will be the main message with RH readings into the 20s by Friday and Saturday. Winds will continue to be light. 

Prevention Message: 

Homes near wildland areas are at risk of burning in a wildfire, but a little advance preparation can greatly increase your homes chance of survival.  Remove dead vegetation within 30 feet of your house.  Trim tree branches up from the ground and away from your house. Clean needles and dry leaves out of gutters. Create a firewise space around your house that is lean, clean, and green. 

Wildfire Update - October 10, 2011

Current situation:  

· In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 65 fires for 1,866 acres. 

· 250 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.

· Daily detailed fire information can be found at inciweb.org.

·The Old Potato Road Fire in Bastrop County was contained yesterday at 310 acres. 

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost): 

None. 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): 

None. 

Weather Outlook: 

WEST:  The cold front that has been draped over Central Texas the last few days will slowly move through the Hill Country this morning and dissipate this afternoon as the upper level disturbance moves out of the Rockies into the Central Plains region. Abundant Gulf moisture along and south of the frontal boundary will continue to help produce scattered showers and thunderstorms from east of the Metroplex southward into the Coastal Plains and down into Deep South Texas today. The driest air will remain confined to Far West Texas and West Texas along the New Mexico border. Drier conditions are expected to return statewide Tuesday through mid week. 

EAST:  Moist southerly flow will continue aloft ahead of a dissipating trough across eastern Texas this morning but will shift southwesterly and become somewhat drier in the late afternoon. Scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms will accompany this dissipating trough. Wind speeds will be sustained at under 10 mph. Max gusts reaching up to 20 mph are possible with any showers. What little winds there will be will shift from south over eastern areas in the morning to westerly in the afternoon. There will be localized areas of rainfall up to .50 of an inch, but most areas will receive less than 0.15 of an inch. 

Prevention Message: 

Although some areas of Texas received rain, the state remains in a drought.  Use caution when outdoors, it only takes one spark.  Homes near wildland areas are at risk of burning in a wildfire, but a little advance preparation can greatly increase your homes chance of survival.  Remove dead vegetation within 30 feet of your house.  Trim tree branches up from the ground and away from your house. Clean needles and dry leaves out of gutters. Create a firewise space around your house that is lean, clean, and green. 

Wildfire Update - October 09, 2011

Current Situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 8 fires for 70 acres.  
• 251 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans. 
• Daily detailed fire information can be found at inciweb.org 
• The following 24-hour rainfall amounts were reported by the Remote Automated Weather Stations (RAWS). 

Midland                2.31 

Barnhart               2.04 

Paint Creek          2.88 

Coleman               2.70 

Amarillo                 .30 

Matador                1.09 

Miller Creek         3.55 

Hamby                  2.96 

Coleman               2.70 

Mason                  3.90 

PK                        4.55 

Comanche            8.22 

Colorado              6.43 

Bird                      1.91 

Guadalupe            2.52 

Pearsall                2.05 

Balcones              2.33 

LBJ                      3.58 

Granbury             4.54 

McGregor            2.25 

Bastrop                1.04 

Cedar Hill             .60 

Wildfire Update (abridged version)--October 8, 2011 

Wildfire Update - October 07, 2011

Current situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 7 new fires for 191 acres.   
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 92 fires for 2,391 acres. 
• 251 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.  
• Daily detailed fire information can be found here or at inciweb.org.  

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost):

NONE 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): 

OLD POTATO ROAD, Bastrop County.   310 acres, 75 percent contained.   Evacuations have been lifted, 50 homes were threatened and saved.  This fire is burning in heavy fuels approximately 7 miles northeast of Bastrop. 

Weather Outlook:  

WEST:  A cold front will begin to slowly nudge into the Northwest Texas Panhandle today, combine with an upper level disturbance moving out of the Southern Rockies and Gulf moisture moving through Central Texas to produce isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms from the Coastal Bend to Deep South Texas through Central Texas and into the Panhandle ahead of and along the frontal boundary today. Strong and gusty Southeast to Southerly winds are expected to continue across much of Texas with the driest air confined to the Ark-La-Tex region and also from the Davis Mountains into Far West Texas to produce Elevated Fire Weather Conditions in those areas. The cold front will slowly move into Central Texas this weekend with abundant moisture and good rain chances ahead of and along the frontal boundary. 

EAST:  Moderate southeast wind will continue ahead of a slow moving cold front moving through west Texas. Winds will again lead to elevated fire weather conditions throughout the day into the evening hours. Wind speeds will be sustained at 12 to 18 mph with max gusts reaching up to 25 mph. The stronger gusts will occur across the western sections of all zones and along the coast. Moisture from the Gulf will generally keep minimum relative humidity above 25% with higher values along and near the coast in Livingston and Woodville. 

Prevention Message: 

HYDRATION 

Dehydration is the result of the body trying to regulate its temperature naturally through sweating. Studies conducted on wildland firefighters indicate that during fire suppression activities firefighters need to drink a minimum of 1 quart of fluid each hour of work. 

• Maintaining body fluids is essential for sweating. You must hydrate before, during, and after work. 
• Before work you should take extra fluids to prepare for the heat. Drink 1 or 2 cups of water, juice, or a sport drink before work. 
• While working drink at least 1 quart of fluid per hour. Drink as much as you can during the lunch break. Water is your greatest need during work in the heat. 
• Hyponatremia (abnormally low concentration of sodium in the blood) as a result of excessive water intake a potentially life-threatening complication. Hyponatremia can be prevented when rehydration is enhanced by fluids containing sodium and potassium, or when foods with these electrolytes are consumed along with the fluid. 
• After work it is important to continue drinking to replace fluid losses. Thirst always underestimates fluid needs, so you should drink more than you think you need. 
• Unacclimatized workers lose more salt in the heat so they need to pay particular attention to salt replacement. Don��'��"�t overdo salt intake; too much salt impairs temperature regulation. Excessive salt can cause stomach distress, fatigue, and other problems. 
• You can assess your hydration by observing the volume, color, and concentration of your urine. Low volumes of dark, concentrated urine, or painful urination indicate a serious need for rehydration. Other signs of dehydration include a rapid heart rate, weakness, excessive fatigue, and dizziness. 
• Rapid loss of several pounds of body weight is a certain sign of dehydration. Rehydrate before returning to work; continuing to work in a dehydrated state can lead to serious consequences, including heat stroke, muscle breakdown, and kidney failure. 

Wildfire Update - October 06, 2011

Current situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 14 new fires for 77 acres, including a new large fire in Bastrop County. 
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 102 fires for 5,034 acres. The South 104 Fire in Hardeman  County was contained at 3,700 acres. 
• 251 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.
• Daily detailed fire information can be found here or at inciweb.org.

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost): 

None 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): 

OLD POTATO ROAD, Bastrop County.  320 acres, 50 percent contained.  Multiple dozer task forces, heavy airtankers, and helicopters were engaged in suppression efforts yesterday.  This fire is burning in heavy fuels approximately 7 miles northeast of Bastrop. 

Weather Outlook:  

WEST:  Gulf moisture will continue to move up the Rio Grande River Valley through Central Texas and into the Panhandle ahead of a lee-side surface trough that extends from Eastern New Mexico southward into the Davis Mountains Region of West Texas.  Isolated showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop from the Coastal Bend to Deep South Texas through Central Texas and into the Panhandle ahead of and along the trough this afternoon. Strong and gusty Southeast to Southerly winds are expected across much of Texas as dry air remains in place ahead of the system in Northeast Texas to produce elevated Fire Weather Conditions for the NE Texas and the Ark-La-Tex region. Behind the surface trough in West and Far West Texas Elevated Fire Weather Conditions are also expected. A cold front will approach the state Friday and move into Central Texas by the weekend with gusty winds, increasing moisture and good rain chances ahead of and along the frontal boundary. 

EAST:  Surface high pressure will shift eastward as a cold front moves into the Texas Panhandle. Southeasterly flow will strengthen and transport Gulf moisture further inland on Thursday. Winds will increase to critical weather thresholds on Thursday, which will cause elevated fire weather conditions. Wind speeds will be sustained at 12 to 18 mph with max gusts reaching up to 25 mph. The stronger gusts will occur across the western sections of all zones and along the coast.  Moisture and winds will continue to increase across the region on Friday with the possibility of critical fire weather conditions. 

Prevention Message: 

Ash pits are an inherent and hidden risk to wildland firefighters that can cause severe burns and injuries. Ash pits are created when a ground fire consumes underground fuels creating an empty space that is imperceptible from the surface. 

• Environmental factors that increase the risk of ash pit formation after a wildfire:  
• Extensive root systems of trees and shrubs.  
• Deep duff or peat, the organic layer covering mineral soil.  
• Landscapes that have once been cultivated or manipulated by heavy equipment, old dozer piles, sawmills, timber sale yards or decking areas.  
• Small rodent holes that have become filled with decadent combustible debris, beaver holes near dams and stream beds, badger and coyote dens.  
• White ash is sometimes an indicator of ash pits as are swarms of hovering insects.  
• With the sun behind the suspected ash pit, look for small nearly translucent smokes that dissipate quickly above the ground.  
• Ash pits often give off the smell of incomplete combustion or of creosote burning.  
• Mitigation measures to consider:  
• Identification of high risk landscape.  
• Identify and flag all hazardous discovered ash pits. 

Wildfire Update - October 05, 2011

Current situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 11 new fires for 1,047 acres, including a new large fire in Bastrop County.   
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 104 fires for 5,731 acres. 
• 251 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.
• Daily detailed fire information can be found here or at inciweb.org. 

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost): 

OLD POTATO ROAD, Bastrop County.  1,000 acres, 25 percent contained.  50 homes threatened and evacuations are in occurring with structure protection in progress.  Multiple dozer task forces, heavy airtankers, helicopters, SEATs and an air attack are heavily engaged in suppression efforts.  This fire is burning in heavy fuels approximately 7 miles northeast of Bastrop. 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): 

SOUTH 104, Hardeman County.  3,700 acres, 90 percent contained.   Line construction and mop up continue.  This fire is burning 12 miles southwest of Quanah. 

Weather Outlook:  

WEST:  An upper level disturbance moving out of the Southern Rockies will combine with Gulf moisture moving up the Rio Grande River Valley through West Texas and into the Panhandle ahead of a lee-side surface trough in eastern New Mexico to produce isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms for much of West Texas today. Winds will continue to be strong and gusty across Central and West Texas as dry air remains in place ahead of the system in East and Central Texas to produce Elevated Fire Weather Conditions for the Upper Red River Valley into the Big Country. A cold front will approach the state Thursday and move into Central Texas by the weekend with increasing winds and moisture statewide and chances for rain ahead of along the frontal boundary. 

EAST:  A high pressure ridge over east Texas and surface based high pressure to the northeast will continue to bring low level east to southeast winds resulting in continued dry conditions today. A gradual shift of the wind to more of a southeast direction overall will increase relative humidity trends starting in the southern zone near the coast today. By Wednesday, additional Gulf moisture will have worked northward but minimum humidity in the central and northern zones of east Texas will still see minimum humidity within the 20 percent range. Moisture will continue to increase across the region day by day with the possibility of a shower or thunderstorm Friday in the southwest part of the Livingston zone. 

Prevention Message: 

WILDLAND/URBAN INTERFACE WATCHOUTS 

The primary consideration is to first assure firefighter and public safety. It is a must to assess potential fire behavior, ingress/egress routes, nature of the threat, hazardous materials, and available water supplies before engaging in the protection of any structures. The first step in conducting a safe operation is to assess whether the firefighting operations can be conducted safely. 

• Consider the Wildland/Urban Interface Watchouts in completing a risk analysis for the urban interface area to be protected. Remember there are three categories of structures:  
• Those that are not threatened.  
• Those that are threatened.  
• Those that have already been lost or too dangerous to protect. 
• Wildland/Urban Interface Watchouts:  
• Poor access and narrow, one-way roads. A rapidly spreading fire could trap apparatus and personnel before they can turn around or move away from the flames and smoke.  
• Observe bridge limits. Exceeding bridge limits could lead to bridge failure with a resultant blocking of ingress/egress routes that could result in the loss of an escape route or loss of equipment.  
• Inadequate water supply. Without a reserve supply of water, the fire can overtake an area before the fuels can be cleared away.  
• Natural fuels are located 30 feet or closer to structures on level ground. Remember structures on slopes require greater clearance. Structures are located on canyon slopes or chimneys on slopes of 30% or more with continuous, flashy fuels. The resulting rate of spread of any fire in this terrain can quickly extend beyond control. 
• Extreme fire behavior: Situations involving crowning, large flame heights and erratic fire behavior can extend in an unpredictable manner beyond the control of any number of personnel. Strong winds of 25+ MPH: Winds increase the chance of spotting over the heads of firefighters and trapping them between both fire areas. Winds also cause greater preheating of fuels in the path of a fire front.  
• The need to evacuate the public, livestock, pets, and/or animals. This critical activity can pull personnel from the firefighting activity and can distract attention from fire behavior at a time when the greatest alertness is needed.  
• Propane and above ground fuel tanks that are next to wooden structures or close to vegetation  
• Power lines and poles: What is their location in relation to the structures that are being protected? Watch for both overhead and downed power lines.  
• Local citizens are attempting suppression activities. Lack of knowledge in fire suppression may lead to unsafe tactics.  
• Airtanker retardant drops and helicopter bucket operations: Establish communications and keep fire personnel out of the drop zone. 

Wildfire Update - October 04, 2011

Current situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 10 new fires for 55 acres.
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 103 fires for 5,541 acres.
• 251 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.
• Daily detailed fire information can be found at inciweb.org.

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost): 

 None 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): 

SOUTH 104, Hardeman County.  3,700 acres, 50 percent contained.   Line construction and mop up continue.  This fire is burning 12 miles southwest of Quanah. 

Weather Outlook:  

WEST:  A lee-side surface trough will continue to strengthen in eastern Colorado and eastern New Mexico while the surface ridge of high pressure in the mid-Mississippi River Valley slowly moves eastward. Winds will be strong and gusty across West Texas north of I-20. Very dry air will remain in place across most of the state until Wednesday when moisture from the Gulf of Mexico begins to move up along Rio Grande Valley, across the Permian Basin and northward through the High Plains of West Texas through Friday. 

EAST:  A high pressure ridge over east Texas and surface based high pressure to the northeast will continue to bring low level east to southeast winds resulting in continued dry conditions today. A gradual shift of the wind to more of a southeast direction overall will increase relative humidity trends starting in the southern zone near the coast today. By Wednesday, additional Gulf moisture will have worked northward but minimum humidity in the central and northern zones of east Texas will still see minimum humidity within the 20 percent range. Moisture will continue to increase across the region day by day with the possibility of a shower or thunderstorm Friday in the southwest part of the Livingston zone. 

Prevention Message: 

CHAINSAW SAFETY - Chainsaw safety is every saw operators job. 

• Always wear proper P.P.E. when handling or working around chainsaws.  
• Eye protection- approved goggles or safety glasses (no sunglasses)  
• Chainsaw Chaps- proper size and length  
• Gloves-proper size  
• Long sleeve shirt-no loose sleeves  
• Leather boots-no loose boot laces  
• Take the time to inspect the chainsaw before operating the saw.  
• Check the chain and bar- Sharpness of chain, Bar seated correctly  
• Check the bolts and screws all around the saw- no missing screws or bolts  
• Check the casing of the saw- no cracked or missing plastic  
• Make sure you're aware of your surroundings while operating the chainsaw.  
• Look for people working in your area - advise all personnel you're operating the saw.  
• Look for any snags or hazards in your area- look up for power lines, widow makers, etc.  
• Make sure you always have a spotter or swamper to use for communications.  
• Always watch your footing while operating the saw- loose, rocky, steep terrain can cause you to slip while the chainsaw is running. 
• Always make sure you are comfortable doing the task at hand.  
• Proper training for personnel running saws.  
• While falling trees know your escape route.  
• If you are not comfortable falling the tree walk away. Notify your supervisor and mitigate the safety issues or turn down the assignment 

Wildfire Update - October 03, 2011

Current situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to eight new fires for 49 acres.   
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 98 fires for 8,484 acres.
• 250 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.
• Daily detailed fire information can be found at inciweb.org.

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost): 

None. 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): 

SOUTH 104, Hardeman County.  3,700 acres, 50 percent contained.   Line construction and mop up continue.  This fire is burning 12 miles southwest of Quanah. 

Weather Outlook:  

WEST: A surface ridge of high pressure extends across Texas from the Arklatex area southwestward to Laredo while a lee-side surface trough strengthens in eastern Colorado and eastern New Mexico. Winds will be strong and gusty across West Texas north of I-20. Very dry air will remain in place across most of the state until Tuesday night when moisture from the Gulf of Mexico will move up along Rio Grande Valley, across the Permian Basic and northward through the High Plains of West Texas. 

EAST: High pressure at the surface and aloft will continue to bring dry and mild conditions to the Southeast Texas Fire Complex. Winds will be light out of the east at 3 to 7 mph with max gusts remaining below 15 mph. Very dry air will remain in place allowing for minimum relative humidity values of 15 to 25 percent during the afternoon hours. High temperatures will general run in the mid 80s. The dry weather pattern will continue into Tuesday with a general increase in winds and relative humidity as flow becomes southerly by mid-week. 

Prevention Message: 

Going hunting this season?  Zero in on safety and fire prevention first.  Exhaust systems can easily ignite vegetation, so drive and park only in designated areas and avoid dry brush and grass.  It takes only a few moments for a single spark to start a catastrophic wildfire.  Before starting any outdoor cooking, check with your local fire authorities for the latest information on burn ban regulations in your county.  Please use great caution with any activity that could start a fire. 

Wildfire Update - October 02, 2011

Current situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 12 new fires for 238 acres. 
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 108 fires for 8,589 acres.   
• 250 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.  
• Daily detailed fire information can be found at inciweb.org.  

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost): 

None 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): 

SOUTH 104, Hardeman County.  3,700 acres, 50 percent contained.   Line construction and mop up continue.  This fire is burning 12 miles southwest of Quanah. 

Weather Outlook:  

WEST: High pressure over the region will keep humidity levels very low across most of the state today with poor to fair humidity recoveries tonight except over the mountains of Far West Texas, along and south of an Eagle Pass to Houston line and across most of the East Branch. The dry air mass will allow for large temperatures between night and day with highs in the 90s over South Texas and 80s elsewhere, and lows in the lower to upper 60s over the South Branch and 50s elsewhere. Winds will be light east to southeast in areas east of I-35 and generally south to southeast to the west of I-35. An increasing pressure gradient across the Panhandle will result in gusty afternoon winds over the Panhandle and High Plains of West Texas. No rain is except today through Monday. A similar warm and dry forecast is on tap for Monday. 

EAST: High pressure at the surface and aloft will bring dry and mild conditions to Eastern Texas. Light easterly flow of 3 to 7 mph will continue to transport dry air into the region resulting in very low relative humidity values of 15 to 25 percent during the afternoon. Sunday night temperatures will quickly drop allowing for moderate humidity recoveries along the coast and low lying areas in the interior. Near or slightly above normal temperatures and dry conditions will continue from Monday through Wednesday with high pressure aloft maintaining clear skies. 

Prevention Message: 

Homes near wildland areas are at risk of burning in a wildfire, but a little advance preparation can greatly increase your homes chance of survival.  Remove dead vegetation within 30 feet of your house.  Trim tree branches up from the ground and away from your house. Clean needles and dry leaves out of gutters. Create a firewise space around your house that is lean, clean, and green

Wildfire Update - October 01, 2011

Current situation: 

• Yesterday Texas Forest Service responded to 26 new fires for 5,663 acres, including new large fires in Haskell and Coleman counties. 
• In the past seven days Texas Forest Service has responded to 110 fires for 12,795 acres.   
• 250 of the 254 Texas counties are reporting burn bans.  
• Daily detailed fire information can be found at inciweb.org.   

New large fires from yesterday (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels; or where homes were lost): 

COLEMAN BURKETT WEST, Callahan County.  360 acres, 70 percent contained.  Five homes were saved on this fire burning seven miles southwest of Cross Plains. 

CROOKED RIVER RANCH, Haskell County.  5,000 acres, contained.  The fire is burning 15 miles east of Stamford. Crews made good progress on the fire today. 

Uncontained fires from previous days (more than 100 acres in timber, 300 acres in lighter fuels): 

COOPER MOUNTAIN, Kent County.  2,200 acres, 95 percent contained.  The fire is burning 12 miles south of Clairemont.   

MacELROY 1, Crane County.  1,500 acres, 85 percent contained.  The fire is burning 5 miles northeast of Crane. Several structures are in the area.  Two MAFFS C-130s assisted on the fire yesterday. 

SOUTH 104, Hardeman County.  3,700 acres, unknown containment.  There was no new growth on the fire yesterday. 

Weather Outlook:  

West:  Surface high pressure will continue to occupy the central part of the country and Texas through this forecast while a lee-side trough develops from eastern Wyoming south into west Texas. Winds across the state will be controlled by the position of the highs surface ridge axis today and Sunday. Winds will be northeasterly east of the axis, easterly along the axis and southerly to the west. Temperatures will trend warmer in the southerly flow over the western third of the state today and again on Sunday. Except for the south branch, nighttime humidity recovery will be poor to fair tonight. 

East: Dry and cool northeast flow at the surface will continue following the cold front passage on Friday. This will continue low relative humidity in the afternoon with areas of poor humidity recovery Saturday night. Northeast winds will also continue although mostly below 10 mph. Near or slightly above normal temperatures and dry conditions will continue from Sunday into Tuesday with high pressure aloft and at the surface maintaining clear skies. 

Prevention Message: 

Homes near wildland areas are at risk of burning in a wildfire, but a little advance preparation can greatly increase your homes chance of survival.  Remove dead vegetation within 30 feet of your house.  Trim tree branches up from the ground and away from your house. Clean needles and dry leaves out of gutters. Create a firewise space around your house that is lean, clean, and green.