SIT REP 3: Wednesday, February 28, 2024, 1215 hours PST

Photo Credit: TX A&M Forest Service

INCIDENT SUMMARY

A wildfire named the Grape Vine Creek Fire, broke out on Monday, February 26, 2024, at 1510 hours CST. The fire was originally reported as nine-and-a-half miles southwest of Lefors (Gray County), Texas, along with Hwy283. However, on Wednesday it extended further into heavy fire fuels and about three miles southwest of the town and approximately listed as 10 miles southeast of Pampa.

Evacuations were issued to residents in Pampa but sources are saying they were lifted by Fire/Law Enforcement Officials.

On April 18, 2018, the McClellan Fire burned about 13,000 acres and had a 10% containment status which burned in Gray County, Texas, which prompted FEMA to approve a fire management grant. – FEMA

CURRENT STATUS

Today, fire crews are working to build a control line along the east and southern sides of the fire.

The fire has burned approximately 30,000 acres and has a 60% containment status of last night at 1959 hours CST. (1859 hours PST).

Professional and mostly volunteer firefighters with the Lefors Fire Department have been taking time away from their jobs, families, and friends and servicing selflessly and with tireless efforts to fight these fires. The community has been feeding and supporting them and they are more than grateful.

Fire Fact: There are currently 163 active wildfires burning in the State of Texas.

FIRE COMMAND

Unified Command includes Texas A&M Forest Service and local Fire agencies.

RESOURCES

FIRE / LAW ENFORCEMENT

Lefors Fire Department

Hoover Volunteer Fire Department

Gray County EMS

McLean Fire Department

Granbury Volunteer Fire Department Support Brigade

Wheeler County Fire agencies

The Pampa Fire Department

Gray County Sheriff’s Office

Pampa Police Department – Posted 2/28/2024 1120 hours PST

SCAM ALERT:

Unfortunately, in times of distress, some will try to take advantage of people. We already have reports of persons willing to spray homes for smoke and clean off “burning embers” from their rooftops. DO NOT pay these folks money. Report them! If you are approached by these people, call the Pampa Police Department at 806-669-5700 and report them. Our Code Enforcement for the City will also be out looking for non-permitted solicitors. Try to get a vehicle and personal description if possible. Thank you and please take care of yourself and yours.

-PPD Police Chief Richburg

GOVERNMENTAL

Gray County / Pampa Emergency Management

TX Division of Emergency Management

Wheeler County Emergency Management

HUMANITARIAN ORGANIZATIONS

The Salvation Army of Pampa, Texas, and the Emergency Disaster Team – providing Blessing Bags for first responders. VOLUNTEER: Contact Shelby, at 806-441-2971.

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Chicken Express Pampa – donated tea, water, ice, and cups.

Pizza Hut – free pizzas.

McDonalds – 150 free hamburgers.

Xtra Auto Center – 10 cases of water.

Photo Credit: Lefors Volunteer Fire Department

LOOKING THROUGH THE EYES OF SOCIAL MEDIA

“Thank you to the Lefors Fire Department and other partners for saving our house and aiding our neighbors.” – Lefors Resident (Courtesy: LFD. Posted 2/26/2024)

“Fire south of Pampa just jumped Ranch Road 749. TX DOT is working on the highways. Another fire is located north of Pampa as well.” – local news media (Posted: 2/26/2024).

“The town of Pampa has a population of 16,000 people.” – religion group (Posted 2/27/2024)

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