A firestorm is a true force of nature. Much like a hurricane or tornado, you can’t stop it. All you can do is get out of its way.
That's why you need to be ready. In just the past seven years, 19 firestorms have been documented. Those storms resulted in 1,075 fires that burned 3.5 million acres, destroyed 1,388 structures and killed 24 people.
But you don't have to be a victim. You can prepare for these deadly firestorms. And we can help.
How do they happen?
Conditions must be just right for these massive and destructive fires — or groups of fires — that often last all day and can’t be stopped by firefighters.
Occurring mostly in the winter and spring, it takes the perfect mix of weather conditions:
- Strong upper level low north of the impact area
- Low level thermal ridge intersected with the strong mid level jet
- Dry west-southwest winds across an area with low relative humidity
- Strong downsloping effect aided by mid level jet and surface low
- Above average surface temperatures
- Unstable atmosphere
When these conditions occur at the same time, the weather is truly in control. Aggressive firefighting techniques don’t work. The only thing you can do is move people out of harm’s way.
Who is at risk?
These firestorms can occur across the Southern Plains, an area that spans from eastern New Mexico east to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and from Oklahoma south to the Texas Hill Country.
The Interstate 20 corridor leading from just west of Abilene to the Dallas-Fort Worth area seems to be a particular hotspot. If you live along this corridor or 100 miles north or south of it, you need to be aware of the dangers.
What can you do?
The best way to protect yourself is to be prepared for these potentially devastating firestorms, also known by the National Weather Service as Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreaks. Texas Forest Service, working together with the National Weather Service, can help you get ready before the storm.
Protect your family and home by learning about Ready, Set, Go! & Firewise Communities programs.