The Texas A&M Forest Service blames 110-degree heat, 10-20 mph winds, and drought conditions in 99% of Texas for the outbreak of a record 24 new wildfires, as reported by the Associated Press.
Two fires, the Chalk Mountain and Possum Kingdom Lake fires, have by themselves burned at least 21 homes. The wildfires have scorched more than 7,000 acres in central and eastern Texas.
In a statement, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said “As we continue to deploy all available resources in response to widespread fire and drought conditions, Texans are encouraged to remain vigilant and weather-aware,” according to the Daily Mail.