May 9, 2016—COLLEGE STATION, Texas— Over the weekend a
combination of lightning, dry vegetation and elevated temperatures led to a wildfire
in Jeff Davis County.
The area experienced temperatures in the upper 80s,
sustained winds of 15 – 25 mph and low relative humidity.
This critical fire weather played a major role in the size of
the wildfire as the wind quickly caused the flames to jump the containment line.
"Anytime
sustained winds reach 20 – 30mph, with higher gusts, it makes battling the
blaze much harder because the head of the fire is moving at an accelerated
speed," Juan Acuna, Texas A&M Forest Service meteorologist said.
Due to the forecast for increased fire potential in Trans
Pecos, Texas A&M Forest Service pre-positioned its Trans Pecos task force
to Fort Davis. Sunday morning the crew received a request for assistance on the
Willow Springs Fire that started late Saturday night.
“Volunteer firefighters had responded to numerous
lightning fires over the past two days, prior to the Willow Springs Fire,” said
Jeff Meiner, Texas A&M Forest Service assistant chief regional fire
coordinator. “I believe our rapid response and initial containment efforts helped
tremendously in containing the fire and gave the volunteers extra support.”
Texas A&M Forest Service responded with a seven-member
team, two UTVs and a Type 6 engine.
“Due to the tough terrain, and minimal impact suppression
tactics, dozer operations were not suitable and burn outs were conducted along
the road and trail to contain the fire. We utilized UTVs outfitted with
portable tanks to use on hot spots and to help mop up,” Meiner said.
The crew worked in conjunction with fire departments from Brewster
and Jeff Davis counties and local ranchers.
Trans Pecos experienced the peak of their wildfire season
this past weekend. Current forecasts show elevated fire risk to continue
throughout today and tomorrow, but wildfire potential should decrease throughout
the week.
Learn more about how Texas A&M Forest Service determines
fire danger and wildfire potential on the Texas
Interagency Coordination Center website.
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Editor’s Note: More photos available on
Flickr album.
Contacts:
Texas A&M Forest Service Communications Office;
979-458-6600; newsmedia@tfs.tamu.edu