Texas Governor Greg Abbott has amended and renewed a disaster proclamation for fire weather conditions in January 2026. The original proclamation was issued on August 10, 2025, and has been updated several times since then due to ongoing risks.
Governor Abbott stated, “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.”
The Texas Division of Emergency Management confirmed that the elevated fire risk continues in certain counties. As a result, the renewed proclamation covers more than 200 counties across Texas.
Governor Abbott continued: “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” in the listed counties.
He also authorized state agencies to use all available resources to respond to this 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.”
Additionally, regulatory statutes that could delay emergency response may be suspended upon approval from the Office of the Governor. Abbott said: “However, to the extent that the enforcement of any state statute or administrative rule regarding contracting or procurement would impede any state agency’s emergency response that is necessary to protect life or property threatened by this declared disaster, I hereby authorize the suspension of such statutes and rules for the duration of this declared disaster.”
Copies of this proclamation will be filed with relevant authorities.
Greg Abbott has served as governor since his election in 2014. He leads the executive office for Texas state government and focuses on economic development initiatives and education improvement. The Office maintains its primary offices at Austin’s State Insurance Building and supports border security efforts along with other community programs.
Abbott’s administration has contributed to job growth and record employment levels across Texas. His leadership was recognized when he was named among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024. The governor’s office continues its work statewide through various initiatives including Operation Lone Star for border security.
