| 2024 Texas wildfires | |
| Fatalities: | 2 |
| Is Season: | yes |
| Year: | 2024 |
| Season Name: | Texas wildfires |
The 2024 Texas wildfires were marked by several major fires, including the Smokehouse Creek Fire in the Texas panhandle and part of Oklahoma.
The Smokehouse Creek Fire burned an estimated in Texas and Oklahoma and was completely contained on March 16,[1] becoming the second largest fire in US history dating back to 1988. It started on Monday, February 26, one mile north of Stinnett in Hutchinson County, Texas.
Other fires include the Windy Deuce Fire, which also started on February 26. As of March 3, it has burned, including a portion of Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, and it is 100% contained.[2]
In addition, the Grape Vine Creek Fire started 9.5 miles south of Lefors in Gray County, Texas on the same day, burning an estimated with 100% containment.[3] [4] [5] [6]
The following is a list of fires that burned more than, or produced significant structural damage or casualties.
| Name | County < | -- of origin--> | Acres | Start date | Containment date | Notes | Ref | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smokehouse Creek | Hemphill & Roberts | Two fatalities | ||||||
| Blue Stem 24 | Brazoria | [7] |
At least two people died as a result of the fires[8] and at least 7,000 cattle have died.[9] Panhandle ranchers and farmers are seeking government assistance to recover from their losses.[10] [11] Volunteer organizations are assisting in the recovery efforts.[12]
Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the largest wildfire, with attention on a downed Xcel Energy Co. power line near Stinnett as a potential ignition source. Lawsuits have been filed against Xcel Energy for alleged negligence leading to the fires.[11]