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Howardwick Evacuated as 8 Ball Fire Rages
19 Feb
Summary
- Howardwick residents evacuated due to the 8 Ball fire.
- Critical fire weather in Texas Panhandle fuels rapid spread.
- Major highways closed as fire nears State Highway 70.
The Nocona Hills section of Howardwick is undergoing evacuation as the 8 Ball fire intensifies in Donley County. This action affects approximately 40-45 residents, who have been directed to an activity center in Clarendon for shelter. The Texas Panhandle is currently experiencing critical fire weather, with strong winds and extremely low humidity contributing to the fire's rapid advancement.
Flames have been observed near State Highway 70, prompting city officials to issue an evacuation alert. Major roadways, including U.S. Highway 287 between Goodnight and Ashtola and State Highway 70 north from Clarendon, have been closed. The 8 Ball fire, ignited about 12 miles west of Clarendon on February 17, has burned approximately 9,000 acres and reached about 25 percent containment by Wednesday afternoon.
Fueling the fire are freeze-cured tall grasses, combined with relative humidity around 12-14 percent and winds reaching 25-35 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. These conditions create a high potential for fire behavior and growth. Resources, including bulldozers and fire engine strike teams, are engaged in containment efforts. Officials anticipate updated information on highway closures and fire conditions.
Across Texas, twelve fires were reported on Tuesday, with the 8 Ball fire and the Lavender fire in the Texas Panhandle remaining uncontained. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning, cautioning against activities that could spark open flames due to the favorable conditions for rapid wildfire spread.
