Texas Panhandle is still scorching over 1.2 million acres. Here’s what we know so far

A series of devastating wildfires have swept through the Texas Panhandle, claiming two lives and scorching more than 1.3 million acres in a week.

The situation remains critical, as five fires are still burning in the region, according to Texas A&M Forest Service.

Texas fires now span over 1.2 million acres in a week.

Texas Panhandle is coping with five active wildfires

The biggest and most destructive fire is the Smokehouse Creek Fire in Hutchinson County, which has consumed nearly 1.1 million acres and is the largest wildfire in the state’s history. As of Sunday afternoon, only 15% of the fire was contained.

The other fires are the Grape Vine Creek Fire in Gray County, which has charred almost 35,000 acres and is 60% contained, the Windy Deuce Fire in Moore County, which has torched 144,206 acres and is 55% contained, the Magenta Fire in Oldham County, which has burned about 3,300 acres and is 85% contained, and the new Roughneck Fire in Hutchinson County, which has grown to an estimated 300 acres and is 25% contained.

Cold front may bring some relief

The weather has been a challenge for the firefighters, as the area has experienced dry and windy conditions that favour fire spread. However, the National Weather Service (NWS) said Monday morning that a cold front will bring cooler temperatures that will help reduce the fire threat.

“Even though there is no precipitation in the forecast, winds and relative humidity values will thankfully not hit any fire weather thresholds early this week,” the Amarillo station said. “… Weak winds at the surface and a lot are looking likely for Tuesday so fire weather should not be a concern.”