Connect with us

NEWS

Forest service mobilized ahead of weekend with wildfire potential

Published

on

COLLEGE STATION, Texas—Increased wildfire activity will be supported Friday through Sunday by warm and dry conditions and critically dry vegetation in the Western Plains, Hill Country and Cross Timbers.

A strong upper level storm approaching the state over the weekend will produce elevated to critical fire weather including above normal temperatures and increased wind speeds, which will increase the potential for large wildfires.

“Any wildfire that ignites in dormant, cured grasses may spread rapidly due to the expected high wind speeds,” said Brad Smith, Texas A&M Forest Service Predictive Services Department Head. “These wildfires may be more resistant to firefighters’ suppression efforts.”

Texas A&M Forest Service is monitoring the situation closely and has mobilized personnel and equipment to areas of concern in advance of the potential wildfire activity this weekend. Fireline supervisors, command staff and incident commanders with advanced qualifications are strategically placed across the state to respond.

Additionally, Texas A&M Forest Service task forces and suppression equipment are staged in Childress, Amarillo, Lubbock, San Angelo, Burkburnett, Fredericksburg, Smithville, McGregor, Mineral Wells, San Angelo, Fort Stockton, Victoria, Beeville, Alice and Edinburg.

Aviation resources are also prepositioned across the state for a quick and effective response. During periods of high fire activity, aircraft are used to support suppression efforts on the ground, aiding in the protection of structures and other valuable resources.

Two large airtankers, nine single engine air tankers, three air attack platforms, two type 1 helicopters and two type 3 helicopters are currently staged in state for wildfire response.

Texas A&M Forest Service is also requesting the mobilization of several strike teams via the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) for wildfire incident support.

“The alignment of dormant vegetation and warm, dry conditions with increased winds have produced some of the largest and most destructive wildfires in Texas’ history,” said Wes Moorehead, Texas A&M Forest Service Fire Chief. “Wildfires that ignite under these conditions may be difficult for firefighters to control and pose a threat to public safety. We encourage our cooperators and all Texans to be prepared and listen to warnings from local officials.”

Texans that live in the areas of concern, including the Western Plains, Cross Timbers and Hill Country, are encouraged to make evacuation preparations in advance of the expected wildfire activity this weekend.

  • Prepare multiple evacuation routes in case one is compromised by heavy smoke.
  • Assemble a go-kit that can be grabbed easily and includes the following items:
    • Supplies for both people and pets. Assemble a go-kit that can be grabbed easily and includes the following items:
    • Prescription medications or other necessary medical equipment.
    • Papers and important documents such as insurance and identification documents.
    • Personal needs including food, water, clothing, money and a first aid kit.
    • Priceless items such as photos, family heirlooms and any other irreplaceable or valuable items.
  • Listen to local officials and, if necessary, evacuate early to get yourself out of harm’s way.

Stay wildfire aware. If a wildfire is spotted, immediately contact local authorities. A quick response can help save lives and property.

For current conditions and wildfire outlook, visit the Texas Fire Potential Outlook https://bit.ly/3kemhbG.

Continue Reading

NEWS

Montague County juggles spending Senate Bill 22 funds

Published

on

By BARBARA GREEN
[email protected]
April was proclaimed as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Montague County by the commissioner’s court on Monday.
A large group of representatives from the Montague County Child Welfare Board, 2Engage Family Service, Child Protective Services and Court Appointed Special advocates filled the courtroom to present the annual proclamation, which was read by Lorra Lierly.
This month of awareness informs the public about the fight against child abuse in all its forms and at all ages of children, plus its impact on families. Those who wish to report possible concerns can call a hotline at 800-252-5400.
It was a relatively brief agenda of business for the court Monday.
They made some changes to how the Senate Bill 22 grant funds will be spent in the county attorney’s office.
SB22 created a grant program that provides financial assistance based on population to sheriff, district and county attorney offices to ensure professional law enforcement and legal representation of the people’s interests throughout the state. The court approved how it will be spent through the county attorney’s office hiring an investigator to serve that office plus others.

Read the full story in the mid-week Bowie News.

Lorra Lierly presented the proclamation naming April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. She was joined by local county child welfare board members, Child Protective Service staff, CASA and 2Engage Families. (Photo by Barbara Green)
Continue Reading

NEWS

Saint Jo ISD purchases 25 acres for long-term planning

Published

on

By BARBARA GREEN
[email protected]
In an effort to bolster long-term planning, the Saint Jo Independent School District Board of Trustees recently approved the purchase of 25 acres on the west side of the city.
School officials made the announcement in a press release just as the district went on spring break, calling it “a significant milestone in the district’s commitment to providing high-quality education and meeting the needs of its growing student population.”
“We are pleased to announce the acquisition of this valuable land, which will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education in Saint Jo ISD,” stated Leeton Phillips, president of the Saint Jo ISD School Board.

Read the full story in the mid-week Bowie News.

Continue Reading

NEWS

City of Saint Jo to try four-day work week for public works, sewer departments

Published

on

The Saint Jo City Council approved a 60-day trial of a four-day work week for the public works and sewer departments, but the city office staff will keep their present hours.
According to the March 13 minutes Public Works Director Marty Hilton made the request to change the work week. The council went into executive session to discuss personnel, and back in open session voted 5-0 to try a 60-day trial for the four-day work week for public works.
Two employees will work Monday-Thursday and the other two will

work Tuesday-Friday. It is up to the employees to determine the work schedule that will go from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting March 29.

Read the rest of the story in the mid-week Bowie News.

Continue Reading
Ad
Ad
Ad
Ad
Ad

Trending