Governor Abbott announces federal aid for Potter County wildfire

Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved Texas’ request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant for the “Stinky” or “Landfill” Fire burning in Potter County. The approval comes as crews continue battling the wildfire in the Texas Panhandle, where dry conditions and strong winds have intensified fire danger across the region.

State officials said the wildfire has threatened neighborhoods, damaged property, disrupted infrastructure, and forced evacuations in affected areas near Amarillo. Approximately 540 homes were evacuated as emergency crews worked to contain the blaze and protect residents from advancing flames.

The fire has burned an estimated 2,570 acres and was reported to be 25% contained as firefighting efforts continued. Local and state agencies remain engaged in suppression operations, with resources deployed through the Texas Division of Emergency Management under the governor’s direction.

Abbott said the federal assistance will provide Texas with additional support to respond to the wildfire threat and help keep communities safe. State leaders also acknowledged the role of firefighters and emergency personnel who continue operating on the front lines in dangerous conditions.

The Fire Management Assistance Grant program allows states to receive federal reimbursement for eligible firefighting expenses tied to wildfires that could become major disasters. Under the approval, Texas may qualify for reimbursement of up to 75% of certain costs associated with wildfire suppression efforts. Eligible expenses can include equipment use, personnel costs, emergency protective measures, and other operational needs connected to containing the fire.

Federal officials created the grant program to help state and local governments manage fires that threaten lives, homes, and critical infrastructure. Approval of the assistance request is intended to ease the financial burden on local communities and emergency response agencies during large wildfire events.

The Texas Division of Emergency Management and members of the Texas Emergency Management Council continue monitoring wildfire conditions across West and Northwest Texas, where elevated fire danger remains a concern. Officials said state resources remain strategically positioned to assist local responders if additional fires develop or conditions worsen.

Wildfire activity has become an ongoing issue across the Texas Panhandle in recent years, particularly during periods of drought, low humidity, and high winds. Emergency management officials continue urging residents to remain alert, follow evacuation instructions when issued, and avoid activities that could spark additional fires.

Residents seeking wildfire information and safety resources can access updates through the Texas Division of Emergency Management’s Disaster Portal. The online platform includes current fire information, preparedness guidance, safety recommendations, and tools for reporting storm or wildfire-related damage.

As firefighters continue containment efforts in Potter County, officials are emphasizing the importance of preparedness and rapid response to reduce the threat to lives and property. Authorities are expected to continue monitoring weather conditions closely in the coming days as crews work to strengthen containment lines around the fire.