Governor Greg Abbott has amended and renewed the drought disaster proclamation for several Texas counties as of February 16, 2026. The decision follows confirmation from the Texas Division of Emergency Management that exceptional drought conditions continue in parts of the state, raising concerns about wildfire risks.
“I, GREG ABBOTT, Governor of the State of Texas, issued a disaster proclamation on July 8, 2022, as amended and renewed in a number of subsequent proclamations, certifying that exceptional drought conditions posed a threat of imminent disaster in several counties; and
WHEREAS, the Texas Division of Emergency Management has confirmed that those same drought conditions persist in certain counties in Texas and that the presence of drought conditions in certain counties contributes to increased wildfire danger;
NOW, THEREFORE, in accordance with the authority vested in me by Section 418.014 of the Texas Government Code, I do hereby amend and renew the aforementioned proclamation and declare a disaster…” Abbott stated.
The proclamation lists more than 80 affected counties across Texas. With this action, all available state government resources are authorized for use to address the disaster. “Pursuant to Section 418.017 of the Texas Government Code, I authorize the use of all available resources of state government and of political subdivisions that are reasonably necessary to cope with this disaster,” Abbott said.
Additionally, some regulatory statutes or rules may be suspended if they hinder emergency response efforts: “Pursuant to Section 418.016…any regulatory statute prescribing the procedures for conduct of state business or any order or rule…that would prevent…necessary action…shall be suspended upon written approval…”
Copies of this updated proclamation will be filed with appropriate authorities as required by law.
Governor Abbott has led the Office since his election in 2014. The office operates statewide from its main location at the State Insurance Building in Austin https://gov.texas.gov/. Under Abbott’s leadership, priorities have included job creation, economic opportunity expansion, education improvement, protection of individual liberties, parental involvement in schools, and southern border security https://gov.texas.gov/. He was also recognized among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024 https://gov.texas.gov/.
Jane Nelson attested to this latest proclamation as Secretary of State.
View the Governor’s proclamation.
