On February 28 (local time), a series of devastating wildfires swept through the Texas Panhandle, rapidly spreading over more than 3,370 kilometers and impacting neighboring areas such as Oklahoma.
As of now, the area affected by the fire is larger than the state of Rhode Island, and the Texas A&M Forest Service reports that the fire is only about 3% contained. This is considered one of the largest wildfires in the state’s history.
According to a series of photos and videos captured at the scene, the fire continues to spread, enveloping many areas in thick gray smoke with high temperatures, while farms, homes, and infrastructure are reduced to ashes.
The fire spreads across many areas in Texas and neighboring regions.
Aerial view of the wildfire.
Katlyn Butler, the wife of a local farmer in Texas, reported that thick smoke is gradually approaching their farm. Consequently, the staff could only do their best to herd the livestock out of the farm to find temporary shelter.
“We have lost livestock; we don’t know which ones have survived,” Katlyn Butler said.
Not only Katlyn, but the livestock and poultry on farms in this area also face a similar fate. A video capturing dozens of cows frantically fleeing from the fire with towering smoke behind them has moved many people, highlighting the terrifying situation faced by both residents and animals in Texas.
Cows frantically fleeing from the fire with columns of smoke behind them.
Currently, this horrific fire continues to spread and is becoming increasingly complex. Residents in many areas have received evacuation orders to ensure their safety. In light of the emergency, Governor Greg Abbott of Texas has declared a disaster for 60 counties in the state and has called for the Texas Emergency Management Agency to send additional resources and firefighters to the Panhandle. Due to the rapid spread of the fire, the local Pantex nuclear facility, various roadways, and many public facilities have also announced temporary closures.
The devastation left in the wake of the fire has shocked many.
