ABILENE, Texas — Firefighters from around the Big Country, and some even from Houston, drove to Abilene to help put out grass fires along Hwy 351 Thursday, Jan 20.
Because of the lack of rain and dry conditions in West Texas, grass fires are not uncommon during this time and can cause major damage.
Around 1:30 p.m., the Texas Wildfire Incident Response System reported the fires had been contained after burning more than 100 acres. One Abilene resident was afraid for her life after flames ignited near her home.
“I was getting ready for the day and I smelled smoke. I looked outside and the smoke was just horrendous. I came out of the house and called 9-11. With the wind blowing, it got away pretty quick. I was afraid it was gonna get the house. It was pretty scary,” Abilene homeowner Fransuele Hodges said.
A firefighter from Baytown County also said he woke up early that morning and drove to Abilene to help, which is something they usually do during these dry Texas conditions.
Firefighters put out grass fires near homes and no one has been reported injured.