Tri County Wildfire almost contained

September 14, 2011

Strong winds from the remnants of Tropical Storm Lee, a crippling drought, dry vegetation, and very low humidity are just some of the obstacles the Texas Forest Service and many other volunteer firemen face in the battle to gain the upper hand.

The runaway, out of control wildfire, which started over Labor Day weekend, has already consumed more than 18,400 acres in Montgomery, Grimes, and Waller Counties. And according to the latest news reports, the fire is right at the Harris County line.

The fire has forced the evacuation of 4,600 residents in Grimes and Waller counties. According to the Texas Forest Service, 60 homes have been destroyed. So far, the fire is 75% contained, but that could change, depending on the wind speed and direction. Winds out of the south have allowed fire crews to gain the upper hand.

Bulldozers and other heavy equipment have been creating fire breaks in Montgomery County, and many areas also were showing signs of progress. Utility workers were finally allowed to enter and begin restoring service to those affected by the fire.

Many of the evacuation orders that were in place have been lifted. However, some residents still are not allowed back into their homes. The only two subdivisions in Grimes County that are still closed off are Plantation Lakes and Saddle Creek along Riley Road. Parts of these subdivisions are also in Waller County.

However, some residents chose to stay in their homes and ignore the mandatory evacuation orders. 

Some have even gone as far as to put sprinklers on their roofs. Others have cut their own firebreaks with tractors or skid-steer loaders.

Despite calls for help by Texas governor Rick Perry and Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst, very little aid has been sent from Washington. Texans finally got a word of relief Friday night. President Obama declared that a major disaster exists in Texas. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs.

The declaration allows federal aid to be sent to Texas. State officials are now able to gain access to heavy equipment, personnel, supplies, and other types of support needed to help it respond. The fires have been burning for nearly 300 consecutive days. The problem has been going on since January, and has only gotten worse.

Almost 700 personnel, several aerial tankers, and many other pieces of equipment have been involved in the firefighting effort.