Mainline

Fire Start, Size and Growth

Start Date/Time/Location: The Mainline Fire ignited on the afternoon of Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at approximately 1:00 p.m.. It is located in rural Hardin and Polk Counties, approximately 3 miles north of Votaw, Texas.
Size and Containment: Based on the latest reports over the last 72 hours, the fire has burned approximately 554 acres and has reached between 90% and 100% containment.
Fuels, Growth and Rate of Spread: The fire initially exhibited active, wind-driven behavior, including running, short crown runs, and group tree torching through timber fuels, grass, and brush. Fire activity diminished significantly as weather conditions moderated after dark on the first day of the incident.
Containment Efforts: The Texas A&M Forest Service and the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas are in joint command of the fire. Firefighters utilized direct and indirect line construction using multiple bulldozers to secure the perimeter. Aviation support and ground resources have been actively patrolling and mopping up hot spots to increase and maintain full containment.

Emergency Information

Evacuations and Sheltering:
Mandatory Evacuation Orders: There are currently no mandatory evacuation orders in place for the Mainline Fire. Officials have plainly stated that no evacuations have occurred.
Evacuation Warnings: There are no evacuation warnings in effect.
Evacuation Shelters and Information: Since no evacuations were necessary, no shelters have been opened, and the estimated number of people impacted by evacuations is zero.

Road and Infrastructure Closures:

• There are currently no reported road closures, school closures, or infrastructure closures associated with the Mainline Fire.
• Local routes near Votaw remain open, but residents are advised to remain cautious of any residual fire apparatus traffic in the area.

For more information, visit:

• Texas A&M Forest Service Current Incidents
• Polk County Emergency Management
• DriveTexas - Highway Conditions and Closures

Current Impact

Impacts:
Injuries and Fatalities: There have been no reported injuries or fatalities associated with the Mainline Fire.
Structures Impacted: No structures were immediately threatened, and there are no reports of structures being damaged or destroyed.
School and Business Closures: There are no reported school or business closures.
Notable Impacts: While residential structures and lives were spared, the fire did cause notable damage to local pine plantations within the fire's perimeter.

Safety Concerns:
Power Outages: There are no reported power outages due to this fire.
Water Safety: No specific water safety concerns have been reported.
Burn Bans: Burn bans fluctuate across Texas counties based on localized weather conditions; residents should check with Polk and Hardin County officials for current local outdoor burning restrictions.
Air Quality: Smoke from the smoldering fire and mop-up operations may pose minor localized health risks. Residents sensitive to smoke are advised to monitor local air quality and limit outdoor activities if smoke is present.

Ongoing Outlook

Containment Projections: Firefighters have achieved significant success, bringing the fire to near-full containment. Crews will continue to improve firelines, patrol the firegrounds, and mop up hot spots using bulldozers, engines, and hand tools to ensure the fire remains fully contained and does not escape its perimeter.
Weather and Wind Warnings: Weather conditions have moderated, aiding containment efforts. Winds are light and variable, shifting to the east and southeast at 5 to 7 mph. Minimum daytime relative humidity is around 35%, with a low chance of rain (around 10%). There are currently no Red Flag Warnings in effect for the immediate area.

Cause and the Role of Weather and Climate

Cause: The cause of the Mainline Fire is currently undetermined and remains under investigation.
Weather and Climate: The fire's initial active spread was driven by wind and dry timber fuels. While a recent multi-day storm system brought substantial rainfall to central and eastern Texas, localized dry fuels and wind conditions in the area allowed the fire to ignite and spread before weather conditions moderated after dark, which ultimately assisted firefighters in halting its progression.

For more information, visit:

• Texas A&M Forest Service Current Incidents
• Polk County Emergency Management
• DriveTexas - Highway Conditions and Closures