Texas Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Texas - August 23, 2026

Overview

Texas is experiencing an elevated fire risk due to a prolonged period of high pressure, widespread triple-digit temperatures, and critically dry vegetation across the state. This combination of hot, dry conditions and breezy winds has led to potentially risky situations for wildfires. The current State Wildfire Preparedness Level is 3, and Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate additional state wildfire response resources, including the Texas A&M Forest Service and Texas National Guard, to protect lives and property.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: There are currently multiple active fires in Texas, with significant wildland fire activity occurring across various geographic areas. Over the last 72 hours, Texas A&M Forest Service and local fire departments have responded to several fast-moving wildfires. Dry timber and grass fuels are supporting rapid fire growth, requiring state and local support—including aviation resources—to manage incident objectives.

Key Fires:
Grass Burr Fire: Located in Cottle County, this fire has burned 2,622 acres. Firefighters have actively utilized large airtankers for retardant drops to slow the spread through critically dry vegetation and grass fuels.

Rustler Fire: Burning across private land in Motley County, this fire ignited on August 22, 2026, and has quickly grown to 1,300 acres. It is currently 25% contained. The fire is being managed as a Type 5 Incident and continues to be fueled by dry timber and grass on the ground.

Starkey Fire: Located in Montague County, this fast-moving fire prompted brief evacuation orders northwest of St. Jo. It was fueled by dry brush and grass but has since been successfully contained by responding crews.

Wildcat Fire: Located in McLennan County, this fire reached 38 acres and is currently 60% contained.

Dead Oak Fire: Located in Rusk County, firefighters have utilized helicopters and water scoopers to combat the flames burning through high-risk pine timber and brush.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: At least 177 of Texas's 254 counties are currently under outdoor burn bans, prohibiting the burning of household yard waste, brush, and other combustible materials. However, certified and insured prescribed burn managers are legally exempt and continue to conduct prescribed burns to reduce hazardous fuel loads and improve ecological health. For example, recent monitored prescribed burns have been conducted at the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge and by Austin Water's Wildland Conservation Division to manage fuel loads, mitigate future wildfire risks, and restore native grasslands.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Widespread triple-digit temperatures (near or above 100°F) and low relative humidity are present across much of the state, creating a highly receptive fire environment.
Forecasted Weather: Red Flag Warnings and elevated fire weather conditions are in effect for portions of Western North Texas and other regions through the next 72 hours. A strong drying trend continues, with breezy southwest winds (sustained at 15-30 mph) expected to pick up, potentially fanning flames. The combination of very dry air, hot temperatures, and winds will support rapid rates of spread and high resistance to control from any new ignitions.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are advised to be mindful of fire traffic and potential smoke impacts. It is crucial to heed all local county burn bans and avoid any outdoor activities that could create sparks. Secure loose chains on vehicles or trailers, properly discard cigarettes, and have an emergency evacuation plan in place.
Resource Allocation: Firefighters are working under challenging conditions with extreme heat. Agencies are training for increased fire risk and utilizing aviation resources, including Blackhawk helicopters and single-engine air tankers, to mitigate high-risk areas and quickly suppress new starts.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Texas A&M Forest Service Current Situation: tfsweb.tamu.edu/CurrentSituation/

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.