Texas Governor Greg Abbott has amended and renewed a disaster proclamation related to ongoing fire weather conditions in the state. The original proclamation was issued on August 10, 2025, and has been updated several times as increased fire weather conditions continue to threaten multiple counties.
According to the Texas Division of Emergency Management, these hazardous conditions persist in certain areas. In response, Governor Abbott declared a disaster for more than 200 counties across Texas.
“WHEREAS, I, GREG ABBOTT, Governor of the State of Texas, issued a disaster proclamation related to fire weather conditions that began on August 10, 2025, as amended and renewed in subsequent proclamations, certifying that increased fire weather conditions pose an imminent threat of widespread or severe damage, injury, or loss of life or property in several counties; and
WHEREAS, the Texas Division of Emergency Management has confirmed that those same increased fire weather conditions persist in certain counties in Texas;
NOW, THEREFORE…I do hereby amend and renew the aforementioned proclamation and declare a disaster in Andrews…Zavala Counties.”
Governor Abbott authorized the use of all available resources from state government and political subdivisions necessary to address this disaster. He also allowed for suspension of regulatory statutes or rules that could hinder emergency response efforts during this period.
“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.
Pursuant to Section 418.016…any regulatory statute prescribing the procedures for conduct of state business or any order or rule…that would in any way prevent, hinder, or delay necessary action in coping with this disaster shall be suspended upon written approval…”
The proclamation was signed by Governor Abbott at his office in Austin on January 8, 2026.
The Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott is responsible for leading executive functions within the state government. This office focuses on economic development initiatives such as job creation and education enhancement while supporting border security efforts and community programs (https://gov.texas.gov/). The governor’s office operates from its primary location at the State Insurance Building in Austin (https://gov.texas.gov/).
Greg Abbott has led the executive branch since his election in 2014 (https://gov.texas.gov/) and was recognized among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024 (https://gov.texas.gov/).
