Single Publication

Gibbs Forest Fire Daily Update

August 31, 2023

10:00 am

Size: 300 acres

Containment: 95%

Start Date: August 29, 2023

Cause: Under Investigation

Texas A&M Forest Service received a request for assistance from Walker County for a fire at State Highway 30 and Pool Road 12.5 miles west of Huntsville, Texas on August 29, at 3:30 pm. 

In coordination with local fire departments, crews from Texas A&M Forest Service and several aviation resources were engaged in mop-up operation efforts yesterday. Crews identified spots outside the containment yesterday morning causing the containment percentage to drop. Two Type 1 helicopters and up to 4 super-scoopers took action to put out those spots under the coordination of Air Attack and ground resources. Dozers and 1 motor grader continued to improve and widen containment lines up to 3 dozer blade widths wide.

State crews are back on scene today containing multiple pieces of heavy equipment and engines to improve existing containment lines and patrol the area for spot fires.

Weather:

Hot and dry conditions will persist. A Red Flag Warning is in effect for the area and relative humidity values will average 20-25%. Winds are expected to be around 5 mph from the east before rotating to the northeast this afternoon. Current conditions coupled with extremely dry fuel and hot temperatures make it important to be extremely cautious with - or avoid entirely - the use of fire or equipment that can cause sparks on dry vegetation. Burn bans are in effect for the entirety of southeast Texas. 

Evacuations:

There are no evacuations at this time.

Closures:

There are no road closures at this time.

Damages and Injuries:

Currently, there have been no reports of injuries from the public or first responders. No structure or critical infrastructure have been lost.