Single Publication

Blum Fire Update July 29, 2023

July 29, 2023

11:30 am

Size: 300 acres

Containment: 50%

Date Started: July 26, 2023

Cause: Unknown 

The Blum Fire started on July 26, 2023, and was responded to by multiple fire departments initially. Texas A&M Forest Service was requested for assistance at 3:15 p.m. and responded with aviation resources, heavy equipment, and engines from Texas A&M Forest Service and Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS). Multiple departments from Hill, Johnson, and Bosque counties are working in Unified command with Texas A&M Forest Service, and Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM).  

Yesterday: Aviation resources and heavy equipment were able to add additional containment lines and continue working on suppression of fire activity within the containment lines.  Crews worked to suppress hot spots and improved structure protection within the fire area. 

Today: Engine crews will be patrolling the perimeter of the fire and the interior roads, working to suppress any active flames, smoking areas and to conduct mop up operations. Heavy equipment from Texas A&M Forest Service is continuing to construct and improve the containment lines. As the day warms and dries, equipment will continue to be ready if fire activity increases. Aerial resources are standing by in case they are needed for suppression. 

Weather and Fire Behavior: Moderate winds with higher gusts will continue today and through the weekend. High temperatures and low relative humidity, similar to yesterday’s conditions will continue for the next several days. 

Structures: It was initially reported that five homes were destroyed by the Blum Fire in Hill County. After further assessment of the burned area, this was determined not to be true. No homes have been destroyed by the fire. One outbuilding, however, is confirmed to have been lost to the fire. 

Evacuations: No evacuations are in effect. 

Closures: There are no closures for the Blum Fire.