A rapidly widening Texas wildfire in the Panhandle doubled in size, prompting evacuations and causing damage to homes and structures. The largest blaze, the Smokehouse Creek Fire, burned nearly 400 square miles. A nuclear weapons facility temporarily shut down as a precaution.
Key Points
Wildfire in Texas Panhandle doubled in size, prompting evacuations and causing damage
Smokehouse Creek Fire burned nearly 400 square miles
Nuclear weapons facility temporarily shut down as a precaution
Evacuation orders issued for multiple towns and communities
Red flag warnings and fire danger alerts issued for other states
Pros
Quick action taken to evacuate residents and personnel
Firefighters on-site and ready to respond
Weather forecast provides hope for better conditions
Cons
Homes and structures damaged or destroyed
Power outages and evacuations impacting communities
High risk of respiratory issues due to wildfire smoke