Despite wet winter, fire threat remains

A wet winter may be in store, but the threat of wildfire still exists, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service.

The current El Niño conditions drop the threat of wildfire to below normal, however the Forest Service is urging caution this holiday season.

“Fireworks and outdoor fires are usually associated with this time of year,” Jan Amen, fire prevention specialist said. “It’s important to be careful, because one spark can cause a devastating fire.”

Although much of the state received above normal rainfall — which suppressed fires for most of the year — the rain increased the amount of grass present, which can serve as fuel for a wildfire start.

“Awareness of this threat is a key safety concern for this winter,” Tom Spencer, Predictive Services department head said. 

Abundant fuels can increase fire size and make wildfire more difficult to control.

Spencer also said that even though the ground is wet, the grass above the ground can still catch fire which may spread quickly if conditions are windy.

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