A rapidly spreading wildfire in Texas has led to mandatory evacuations and power outages, affecting over 4,500 homes and businesses across 60 counties. Governor Greg Abbott has declared a disaster as the fire, named the Smokehouse Creek Fire, has consumed 500,000 acres of land north of Amarillo, making it the second largest wildfire in Texas history.

The blaze, fueled by dry grass, high temperatures, and strong winds, remains uncontained as of Wednesday morning. Despite slightly diminished winds aiding in slowing the fire's spread, the situation remains critical. An expected rainfall in the state's northern panhandle on Thursday may assist firefighting efforts.

Several towns, a neighborhood in Amarillo, and other communities have been evacuated due to the fire, causing poor air quality that led the National Weather Service to advise residents to stay indoors with their pets. Additionally, the spread of the fire near the Pantex nuclear weapons facility forced a temporary shutdown and evacuation, though operations resumed as of Wednesday morning.

Hundreds of firefighters and first responders have been deployed to combat the blaze, while warnings have been issued to farmers about potential agricultural and livestock impacts. The Texas A&M Forest Service is also managing other fires in the area, caused by unexpected high temperatures, which have led to wildfires in neighboring states like Nebraska and Kansas.

The situation remains fluid as authorities work diligently to contain the fire and ensure the safety of residents and vital infrastructure in the affected areas.