The Smoldering Smokehouse Creek Fire
The Smokehouse Creek Fire continues to rage across Texas and Oklahoma, leaving devastation in its path. This massive wildfire has scorched over 850,000 acres since igniting on Monday, making it the second largest fire in Texas history.
Fire crews have been battling this aggressive blaze around the clock, but strong winds and dry conditions have fueled the flames. The Smokehouse Creek Fire is currently only 3% contained and is threatening several communities. Evacuation orders have been issued for multiple counties as the fire encroaches on populated areas.
A Destructive Disaster
The full extent of the damage from the Smokehouse Creek Fire is still being assessed, but officials have confirmed that homes have been destroyed in both Oklahoma and Texas. In Hemphill County, Texas alone, “homes have burned in almost every direction”, according to one official. At least one person has tragically lost their life in the fires. Thousands of cattle are also believed to have perished in the flames.
With hundreds of thousands of acres already burned, the Smokehouse Creek Fire shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Poor weather conditions over the coming days are expected to worsen fire behavior by bringing gusty winds and dry air back to the region. Firefighters will have their work cut out for them trying to contain this massive blaze.
