COUNTY LIFE
Prepare for high winds, wildfires
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller urges Texans—especially farmers and ranchers—to take immediate precautions as wildfire and storm risks across the state reach critical levels. With dry conditions, high winds, and rising temperatures, Texas faces an increased threat of devastating wildfires. At the same time, severe storm warnings are in effect for North and East Texas, bringing the risk of damaging winds, hail, and possible tornadoes.
“We don’t want a repeat of last year’s fires, where we saw entire ranches, homes, and livelihoods go up in smoke,” said Commissioner Miller. “And now, with severe storms threatening parts of the state, Texans need to be on high alert. Preparedness can mean the difference between safety and tragedy.”
Fire Preparedness for Livestock and Farms:
- Create a defensible space: Clear brush, dry grass, and debris around barns, pens, and homes.
- Have an evacuation plan: Identify multiple escape routes and prearrange locations to relocate livestock if necessary.
- Stock up on emergency supplies: Keep extra feed, water, and first-aid kits readily available.
- Mark your animals: Use ear tags, brands, or paint to help identify livestock if they get lost.
- Keep transport ready: Ensure trailers and vehicles are fueled and in working condition for quick evacuation.
Severe Storm Preparedness:
- Secure loose items: High winds can turn farm equipment, debris, and other objects into dangerous projectiles.
- Reinforce shelters: Ensure barns, sheds, and animal enclosures are secure and provide adequate protection.
- Check drainage systems: Heavy rains can lead to flash flooding, so clear ditches and drainage areas to prevent water buildup.
- Have a safe shelter: Identify a safe space for your family, workers, and animals in case of high winds or tornadoes.
- Stay weather-aware: Monitor local forecasts and have a weather radio on hand for real-time updates.
The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) is working closely with state agencies and local officials to support wildfire response efforts and provide assistance where needed.
“Texans are tough, and we look out for each other,” Miller added. “Now’s the time to take action to protect your family, livestock, and property. Let’s not wait until it’s too late.”
For more preparedness resources, visit Texas A&M Forest Service and Texas Division of Emergency Management.
Indians have tough night Thursday playing Tioga falling 0-50. As they left for the game the football team word T-shirts remember “Mando” Alcantar, a 15-year-old Nocona High School student and baseball player was killed in a car crash last weekend. The Tioga players, cheerleaders and band also wore orange wristbands in support of the school. (Photo by Kylene Crossen)
The Nocona City Council will meet at 5 p.m. on Nov. 10 in the council chamber at city hall.
The meeting opens with the newly elected members of the council taking the oath of office. They include Chuck Hittle, Yesika Rodriguez and Robert H. Fenoglio.
After the monthly items of community interest, the consent agenda of bills and minutes and public comments.
The workshop and regular agenda focus on a series of four requests from the Nocona Economic Development Corporation 4A and 4B Boards. The project requests are: $12 for Tales ‘N’ Trails Museum sidewalk project; $190,000 to Friends of Indian Oaks for clubhouse renovations and a new build-out of the interior and porch; and a request for $119,000 for lights at the youth softball field. Both boards are joining funding sources for the projects.
Councilors will consider adopting a National Voter Registration Act Implementation Plan for the Nocona Public Library. Each state library has to undergo a review as it provides a location to pick up voter registration cards.
The panel will consider action after the workshop discussion during the regular agenda.
There is one item for the city council action as the building commission which is a request from Michael Diaz to install a 2022 Champion manufactured home at 210 Fayette Street. There will be a report from the enforcing officer.
AUSTIN, Texas— Today, Texas Land Commissioner and Veterans Land Board (VLB) Chairwoman Dawn Buckingham, M.D., is encouraging Texans to attend Flag Placement Ceremonies at VLB Cemeteries throughout Texas to honor the brave men and women who served our nation this Veterans Day.
Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen
If you would like to participate and honor the brave men and women who served our nation, flag placements are happening at the following locations and flags will be provided on-site. No RSVP is needed:
Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery
Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at 8:00 a.m.
11463 Fort Hood Street
Killeen, Texas 76542
Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery
Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.
2520 Inspiration Road
Mission, Texas 78572
Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Abilene
Friday, November 6, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.
7457 W. Lake Road
Abilene, Texas 79601
Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery
Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.
9974 IH 37 Access Road
Corpus Christi, Texas 78410
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