Single Publication

Pine Pond Fire Update
August 12, 2022
7:00 am

Size: est. 320 acres
Containment: 10%
Start Date: August 11, 2022
Cause: Under investigation

State resources from Texas A&M Forest Service and Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) responded to the Pine Pond wildfire around 3:30 pm on August 11. The fire is burning in heavy brush and mature pine. Initially, the fire was exhibiting problematic fire behavior with group torching and short range spotting.

The fire experience a wind shift and outflow winds last night and the fire made a push and spotted north of the holding line into a powerline right of way. Crews worked to contain the northern edge of the fire as well as the eastern portion where containment lines have been established and secured. The fire remained active until 4:00 AM. All containment lines held overnight.

Today, additional resources will arrive on scene to assist with operations. Crews will continue constructing containment lines with a focus on the western portion of the fire. Aircraft will be heavily utilized again today to keep the fire in check, particularly on the west side, and to cool priority hot spots. 

Fire Weather:
Excellent humidity recovery and light surface winds are in store over the burn area early this morning. The light and variable winds will continue through the morning, with winds then becoming northeast by early afternoon. Daytime heating will likely lead to another round of scattered showers and storms today, mainly after 1400 local. The biggest concern with any thunderstorm activity will be lightning strikes and gusty outflow winds. Rain chances linger through early evening, with chances then decreasing overnight. Look for excellent humidity recovery again tonight into Saturday morning along with light winds. There will be another low chance for showers and thunderstorms over the burn area on Saturday. 

Evacuations and Road Closures:
Evacuations were initially ordered for areas near the fire but have since been lifted with residents allowed to return. Please be mindful of firefighters working in these areas.

Damages and Injuries:
No structures have been destroyed. No injuries have been reported by first responders or the public.