Bell County Judge issues emergency outdoor burn ban
Bell County, Tx (FOX 44) – Bell County Judge David Blackburn has issued an emergency order prohibiting outdoor burning.
The order comes as high winds bringing dry air from West Texas is predicted for the next couple days.
The order will remain in effect for seven days unless otherwise extended by further order by the Bell County Commissioners Court.
Any reported burning in violation of the order will bring a response from the appropriate fire department to put it out and if a responding peace officer finds the person responsible for the fire, a citation will be issued.
Governor Abbott today also announced that he directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate additional state emergency response resources in anticipation of extremely critical wildfire danger expected across West Texas and an increased risk of severe storms in North and East Texas this week.
'As the state faces increased wildfire risks in West Texas and potential severe storms in North and East Texas, Texas stands ready to swiftly deploy additional emergency response resources to communities that may be impacted,' said Governor Abbott. 'West Texans are strongly urged to limit any activities that may cause sparks or flames as dry conditions and sustained winds persist. North and East Texas communities should follow the guidance of state and local officials and take the necessary precautions to keep themselves and their loved ones safe during potential severe storms this week. I thank emergency management personnel and first responders for their tireless work across the state to keep Texans safe.'
According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, dry surface fuels and sustained winds across the western regions support optimal conditions for fast moving wildfires in areas including the Panhandle, South Plains, Concho Valley, Big Country, Permian Basin, Far West, Hill Country, and portions of North, Central, and South Texas. The Texas A&M Forest Service has raised the Wildland Fire Preparedness Level to Level 3, indicating that wildfire activity is impacting several regions of the state as the result of drought, dry vegetation, or frequent fire weather events.
TDEM and the Texas Emergency Management Council agencies are also monitoring the potential for severe weather to impact the northern and eastern regions of the state through the first part of this week. The National Weather Service is forecasting an increased threat of severe storms, with primary risks including tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail, as well as heavy rainfall causing flash flooding.
At the Governor's direction the Texas Department of Emergency Management ordered the Texas A&M Forest Service Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System to be ready.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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