Greg Abbott to issue a disaster declaration for Burnet, Travis, and Williamson counties.
“These drought conditions pose an imminent threat to public health, property, and the economy,” stated a media release from the governor’s office.
He issued the declaration April 13.
Under the disaster declaration, officials can “suspend” any regulation or law that would “prevent, hinder, or delay necessary action in responding to this disaster.” It also suspends any law that impedes a state agency’s response deemed needed to protect life or property under the drought conditions.
“I want to assure the citizens of Texas that we will do all we can to respond to this threat and ensure their safety and the protection of their property,” Abbott said in the release.
Texas is no stranger to wildfires, and will be prepared to respond if needed.” The Burnet-Travis-Williamson county area has experienced a recent increase in wildfires.
The fire eventually burned about 100 acres over a period of two days and required the assistance of several agencies to extinguish the blaze.
That same day, Jonestown, Lago Vista, and Travis County fire units worked several “spots” fires along RR 1431 just west of Jonestown.
The high winds on April 14 exasperated fire conditions with officials issuing a red flag warning and urging people to curtail any outdoor fires.
Texas A&M Forest Service offers the Firewise program, which helps communities and property owners better protect themselves and structures in case of a wildfire.