A fire burned 17 acres near FM 1774 and FM 1488 today but stayed well away from the Texas Renaissance Festival Grounds:
MAGNOLIA, TX (KTRK) -- Firefighters on late Tuesday were still putting out spot fires after a blaze erupted hours earlier and threatened an entire Montgomery County neighborhood. At the height of the blaze, 28 pieces of equipment, including dozers and a helicopter, were used to battle the flames that erupted just after 1pm along FM 1774. Texas Forest Service, the U.S. Forest Service, Tomball Fire Department, Rosehill and Cy-Fair fire departments all helped battle the blaze because it was in a heavily wooded area and high winds were spreading it quickly. At one point, the fire threatened the Magnolia Ridge Subdivision near FM 1488 and one family was evacuated. Many homes in that neighborhood are new or still being built. The Forest Service quickly dispatched a helicopter capable of making water drops and four bulldozers to the scene. In addition Cy-fair Fire Department brought their bulldozer. Authorities believe the fire may have started either by a cigarette butt or from sparks off the wheels of a passing train. It was difficult to determine as the fire was on both sides of the track and did run up against FM 1774. At 9pm, fire crews were still mopping up and putting out spot fires. There were just a few trucks remaining compared to the height f the fire when 28 pieces of fire equipment were on the scene.
http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/story?section=news/local&id=8083063
We need all of our Renaissance wizards to do rain spells to protect our beloved faire and festival grounds.
This could be tragic. And I agree, all wizards are needed for rain spells. All but 2 counties in Texas are affected by fires.
We had some serious rain hit us last night from a storm system that came through part of NE Texas, but it came with lightning, hail, high winds, and a handful of tornadoes. I don't think that would help much there.
I hope for a quick end to the fires and respite from the drought.
Yep, I heard the sirens and saw the helicopter. The fairgrounds are miles away. Magnolia Ridge is before the tracks on 1488. TRF is 5+ miles down 1774.
Just my 2 cents ;D
True - TRF is multiple miles from it but being that the TRF area is protected by a Paid/Volunteer Fire Department and since I was a Volunteer Fire Fighter for 15 years I can tell you that a grass fire can move miles in minutes if the tinder is dry and the wind is high. Thankfully the Forestry Service acted quickly as well as all the Volunteer Fire Departments in that area.
Wizards we need those rain spells to protect all of our beloved Texas faires and festivals. Merlin.... I am sure you could conjure something up.
I agree, we need rain.
Careful which Merlin you have cast the spell...you might end up with O'Doul's falling from the sky (http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2572/3883186744_ae49d92eb6_o.gif)
Sorry MtE....I just couldn't resist (http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2634/3928905587_4e53501c81_o.gif)
OH YEAAAAH, SNAP INTO A SLIM JIM! (http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2646/3928905367_4c71c9d83d_o.gif)
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2549/3839345785_9c2bf7f707_o.gif)
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2624/3839345887_8df214e416_o.gif)(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2627/3929688128_cd9d013c9a_o.gif)
Careful, MacKee...It's not wise to piss off the Wizard! ... Not if you like those free brews... ::)
Nothing is free my wizard friend ;D
I'm sure it will be my turn to buy the first round next time we meet (http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3487/3882392427_f8f1ed5fe4_o.gif) (http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2634/3928905587_4e53501c81_o.gif)
With all of the tornadoes bouncing about this week, I've not heard much about the fires in Texas lately. Are those now under control or out? I'd be more than happy to send some of our recent water in your direction!
Wise Merlin the Elder.....
Some parts of Texas have gotten water from the sky.... probably Scarborough, Four Winds, Sherwood, and Middlefaire have received at least some sky water. Unfortunately, here in the Houston area, home of the Texas Renaissance Festival, we have not received a spell from you or Queen Bonnie. The news the other day stated that this was the longest our area has not had rain on record since 1917.
I'll tell you what, MrHyde... It appears that Gaia is not allowing us to have full control of the weather. She appears to be somewhat angry about our treatment of her, and I can't say that I blame her. But around my castle here in Maumelleshire, Gaia brought us 11 inches of liquid sunshine during the past 2 fortnights. In fact, we got 3.5 overnight last night, and are expecting another 3.5 today. If you want some water, you are welcome to some of this.
If you guys have extra liquid sunshine up there, we here along the coast sure could use some.
Oy! Take my rain....PLEASE! Normally, I'm the kind of person that loves a nice rain. But it hasn't stopped for very long periods in the past week. We had record rain yesterday (3.5 inches), and have already broken today's record (Currently 3.17 inches), and have significant rainfall moving into the county right now.
whoo hooo merlin
we got rain in central texas twice in 1 week 2 inches , now we are only 9 inches below normal this year
give us some more
Our little showers ended up taking us from .68 below normal to 9 inches above normal in 36 hours. And you can see what effect it had on the Mississippi. It was too much, too quickly, and too concentrated. There was enough for everybody. I feel lucky that we only suffered minimal damage from flooding.
We have had some rain here today! Woo Hoo!! Finally! :o
Ain't that the truth!
Quote from: Bonny Pearl on May 12, 2011, 06:47:10 PM
We have had some rain here today! Woo Hoo!! Finally! :o
better have more than some; last season was dry
we received 2.5 inches only 5 inch's behind now
Between now and the appearance of New Market Village we need water in Plantersville. I would imagine right now it would be difficult for the Village to host fireworks in the evening as dry as it is. I feel for all the people on the boards who have experienced a lot of rain but we have not been so lucky here.
The faire had fireworks during the burn bans last year. But things weren't as drastic last year as it is so far this year. I believe June is usually a pretty rainy month for us, here's hoping that is true.
GASP!! Some SERIOUS THUNDER going on out here! So much so that the cloud cover is messing with the satellite reception! This is one time I am actually happy to say the 'R' word...... RAIN!! ;D
Rain. Rain. Rain. Rain.
The rain didn't last very long but it was a good downpour, even knocked the power out. Still waiting for that to come back on......
All we got was thunder, no rain unfortunately.
It is finally raining!
We got lightning and thunder and continuous warnings on the TV. No rain though between Spring and Humble where we live.
Wildfire in Tomball yesterday; burned 46 acres.
A friend just posted pics on FB....Wildfire in Navasota area right now, County Road 302.... I am hoping her house and livestock are not in jeopardy. Some of you here may know who I am speaking of, Cassandra (she goes by Cat) and always accompanies Queen Bonnie at faire.
Queen Bonnie and everyone else, PLEASE send as many rain spells and prayers as possible! The forecast for this coming week is looking like some decent rain this Tuesday through the following Tuesday. Let's do what we can to keep it coming!
More info on FB from Elaine.
http://www.theeagle.com/local/Large-wildfire-burning-near-Plantersville-in-Grimes-County
Estimates: A Thousand Acres! :'( :'(
just left the area, fire is several miles west of site, site is in no danger.
Quote from: Just Randall on June 19, 2011, 08:12:40 PM
just left the area, fire is several miles west of site, site is in no danger.
Thank you Randall! I hope the FD can contain this so it doesn't spread more. From what I read, it moved very quickly.
Sending as much rain energy that way as I can muster!!!
Wow!! Look at this!! Looks like our faire is now becoming a temporary shelter for evacuees!
http://www.kbtx.com/local/headlines/Large_Fast_Growing_Fire_Burning_near_Plantersville_124161604.html
This makes me feel MUCH better! Looking at the pics posted earlier on FB it looked like this was becoming a monster.
Well, if they're using it as a refuge then it's not likely to be threatened. That's a good sign.
Yes Rani it is, plus Randall settled my nerves a lot! He is right by the faire and we are about 7 miles south of it.
We still need massive amounts of rain though, keep praying, sending energy and anything else ya got! :)
I will... but you have to remember... the last time I called the rain, and sang my rain song... the entire south was hit by tornadoes. The time before that, you guys had a visit from Ike... and before that, Katrina.
I try to be a bit more careful where I point that thing these days... :-\
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on June 19, 2011, 09:13:18 PM
I will... but you have to remember... the last time I called the rain, and sang my rain song... the entire south was hit by tornadoes. The time before that, you guys had a visit from Ike... and before that, Katrina.
I try to be a bit more careful where I point that thing these days... :-\
LOL!!! That sounds like Aunt Clara on Bewitched! :D
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on June 19, 2011, 09:13:18 PM
I will... but you have to remember... the last time I called the rain, and sang my rain song... the entire south was hit by tornadoes. The time before that, you guys had a visit from Ike... and before that, Katrina.
I try to be a bit more careful where I point that thing these days... :-\
Well...could you hum, just a little..?
Really worried about some dear friends who live in the area. When I talked to them they were ok for now, but I'll be spending the evening fervently praying for their safety, and sending love their way.
Quote from: Tipsy Gypsy on June 19, 2011, 09:40:39 PM
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on June 19, 2011, 09:13:18 PM
I will... but you have to remember... the last time I called the rain, and sang my rain song... the entire south was hit by tornadoes. The time before that, you guys had a visit from Ike... and before that, Katrina.
I try to be a bit more careful where I point that thing these days... :-\
Well...could you hum, just a little..?
Really worried about some dear friends who live in the area. When I talked to them they were ok for now, but I'll be spending the evening fervently praying for their safety, and sending love their way.
[facepalm/] Ok... but I'm not responsible if, say... Mobile disappears in a few weeks because I pulled the weather patterns all out of alignment. Agreed?
Tiff will likely smack me for this, but emergencies trump her pregnancy-induced territorialism. We have enough crash space to handle four people comfortably, six if they're willing to get cozy, and about ten or twelve if half are willing to take couches and floor space. PM me if you need it, priority given to folks with small children, elderly or others with medical needs who require more sheltered environments than an evacuation campsite.
It appears the TRF is safe as long as the wind doesn't shift. It is scary. The fire Friday in Spring, Texas was at the end of my street. Breandan.... you are a true gentlemen. Bonny Pearl according to the Weather Channel we have 2 days this week at 60% chance of rain. Won't make a dent but may help. Currently there is the fire in Plantersville, one in Huntsville, and one in Midway. The Plantersville one is reporting 30 homes and 20 other structures have been burned. We need prayers and all of our wizards and wizardesses to send spells for a slow 7-10 day rain to come to Southeast Texas.
At this point the Plantersville fire appears to only be 5% contained, and it looks like lots of people have had to evacuate. No reports on how many have taken shelter at TRF so far, but I'm singing the rain song, now...
According to KBTX.com, "As of early Monday morning, the Texas Forest Service reports the fire remains within the boundaries of FM 1774, Highway 105 and CR 362. A three-mile stretch of 105 is closed near Stoneham. Evacuations continue for people living on or near CR 302, CR 304 and Dyer Mill."
I looked at the weather regarding wind. High winds again today, coming from the Gulf. Yesterdays wind was very strong.
I have not heard any other news but if I do I will let y'all know.
Everyone stay safe!
As highly upset as I would be if the faire burned, I am actually more concerned about the residents of Toon Town. They are highly vulnerable out there. My booth burns? OK, we have insurance to rebuild & it's just a faire booth. For those people, it's their whole lives. If some firefighter has to make a decision, I know what my answer would be.
From the TRF Facebook page, "Donation Center Update: The EOC is accepting donations at High Point Elementary School located at 11937 Highway 105 E in Navasota, TX 77868. This location has the gym set up as an evacuation center so they need supplies in that location for the families as well as the fire fighters."
From The Navasota Examiner. This was written by Scott MacDonald:
A fire that destroyed more than 30 homes and 4,000 acres in Grimes County on Sunday could get even worse on Monday, a Texas Forest Service official said Monday morning.
"We've got 25 percent containment right now and we're hoping it will hold," said Lexi Maxwell of the Texas Forest Service. "There are red flag warnings today and the winds are expected to be up to 25 mph with gusts anywhere from 30-40 mph. The winds weren't as high yesterday. Today can be worse than yesterday."
Maxwell said an estimated 35 homes, 20 out buildings and 4,000 acres have already been destroyed from the fire that began possibly from an ember from a charcoal pit in the southern part of the county. Officials said they don't have an exact address on where the blaze ignited and couldn't confirm whether it started in Grimes County or Waller County, but that it was somewhere very close to the boundary between the two counties.
The fire moved northward through Grimes County and is currently between SH 105, FM 1774 and CR 362. Folks who live in the wind direction or in the smoke area are advised to prepare for evacuation, the Texas Forest Service said. People evacuating should pack a bag for a night and grab any necessary medications and prescriptions as well as take any pets that can't take care of themselves.
The Texas Renaissance Festival fairground is the post for people who have evacuated or plan on doing so. There will be food, water and shelter there. Officials request all evacuees to check in at the Renaissance Festival even if they do not plan on staying there.
"We need basic information like names, addresses and contact numbers so we can let them know when it's safe to go back to their homes. That is if they have something to go back to," Maxwell said.
High Point Elementary is being used as an incident command post, not an evacuation post.
The only roads that remain closed are county roads 302, 304, 306 and Millstone. SH 105 and FM 1774 are open.
The Texas Forest Service has four bulldozers on the ground the try to break the fire - two on the east flank of the fire and two on the west flank. There is a helicopter doing recon work and several state and county officials are doing recon work on the ground to further paychecks the damage.
Nine fire departments have been on the scene since Sunday, including all volunteer fire department in Grimes County, Navasota FD, South Brazos Valley Fire Departments as well as Montgomery, Hempstead, Magnolia, Monaville and TriCounty Fire Departments as well as the Texas Forest Service and the U.S. Forest Service.
There has only been one reported injury. A man whose name was not released was in the operation area and got pinned between two fire trucks when one of them was backing up. The man was taken to a county hospital, Maxwell said.
People are advised to stay out of the restricted areas because of the very unstable environment.
"Trees will come down since they've been smoldering since yesterday," Maxwell said. "If a root is burning and someone steps on it, it could sink and someone could be standing in a pit of hot lava. And because structures are lost, the smoke is so much more toxic.
The forest services advise to place cigarette butts or anything else that can spark a flame in proper receptacles. They also advise against any outdoor grilling.
Weather
There is a 20 percent chance of rain Monday, a 30 percent chance of rain on Tuesday and a 60 percent chance of rain on Wednesday, with some of those heavy.
Other fires
There were three fires in North Zulch on Sunday and all have been extinguished. A fire is raging on the county line between Walker and Madison counties and is 50 percent contained. A fire in Trinity County has already consumed 15,000 acres according to one local news report.
http://www.navasotaexaminer.com/news/article_d520baf6-9b58-11e0-969c-001cc4c03286.html
For those that love TRF but come from afar, here are some pictures from some of the local news media of the fire in that area:
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sdZK8t4v0Y0/Tf-KXeqqG9I/AAAAAAABfGM/FY51unWv3jw/ktrk_062011_fire9.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-QxFEmExwQj4/Tf-KYEcJrVI/AAAAAAABfGc/sbJc6hWmd44/ktrk_062011_fire29.jpg)
Quote from: MrHyde on June 20, 2011, 12:43:18 PM
Ravic.... I have never gotten to go to Toon Town. Can you give some directions to it as well as when it opens, etc. I can't seem to find a web site.
Toon Town isn't really a public part of the faire. It is the permanent, mostly Rennie, residential subdivision along the back side of the faire.
Here is an update from KTRK. This was written by Katie McCall:
Officials have just ordered a mandatory evacuation for all homes along County Road 305 near Navasota. According to the Texas Forest Service, the Dyer Mill Fire jumped at least one fire line, burning about 3,600 acres. About 100 homes have been evacuated within the burned area.
http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/story?section=news/local&id=8201488
Here is a link to a video:
http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/video?id=8200371
Here is another video:
http://www.khou.com/video/featured-videos/Raw--Aerials-over-wildfire-in-Walker-County-124187559.html
I wish the rain would hurry up and get here! :( I am seeing some clouds but nothing of the full coverage type that will drop some serious rain...
News just announced that the evacuation point at TRF has been shutdown and everyone evacuated, believe to Navasota High School.
From the Bryan/College Station Eagle. This was written by Shauna Lewis, Matthew Watkins, and Cassie Smith:
The raging wildfire that's burned 5,000 acres in Grimes County is spreading west and northeast, and likely will burn down more homes along the way, officials said Tuesday.
Almost 2,000 homes are in the 36,612-acre evacuation zone where residents are being pushed from their belongings and property because of a blaze that started when fire in a barbecue pit got out of control, authorities confirmed.
At least 26 homes have been annihilated, but emergency management crews are warning that the wildfire is far from being done with the area.
The latest mandatory evacuation called involved residents living north of County Road 305 and F.M. 362.
To the north, the fire runs up to County Road 306 and Texas 105, and from the west of F.M. 362 to the south along County Road 302 and east on F.M. 1774. Many residents have been watching this blaze grow since about 4 p.m. Sunday.
More than 20 fire departments are working on stopping the inferno while four air tankers, a few helicopters, an air attack plane and two military Black Hawk helicopters dump water on it. This morning, officials said a quarter of the blaze was contained, but at mid-afternoon, it had dropped to 10 percent.
No fire-related injuries have been reported, but an incident yesterday involved a man who "was sandwiched between two firefighting apparatuses," according to the College Station-based Texas Forest Service, which has five bulldozers working to extinguish the blaze. It wasn't clear if what condition the man was in or to which hospital he was taken.
The fire was about 25 percent contained, officials said.
The Renaissance Festival grounds initially were set up with two large air-conditioned tents as a site for evacuees to check in and have their needs assessed, but by 3 p.m., that property was at risk. Navasota High School now is established as the headquarters for evacuees. Authorities are asking everyone to stop there and document where they live, how many in a family, etc.
Many area residents fled their homes within an hour of the fast-moving blaze that began about 4 p.m. Sunday near Clark Road in the Plantersville area. Many of the homes consumed by fire were in the area around Whitewall, according to the Texas Forest Service.
Lexi Maxwell, a spokesperson with the Texas Forest Service, said the big concern now is the weather. Winds of up to 20 mph are projected with gusts up to 40 mph, making it easy for the embers to spread the fire event faster across the drought-stricken region.
Authorities late Sunday said a fire that started near Huntsville was spreading toward Madison County. That fire was contained to Walker County and had not spread to Madison County by Monday morning, Madison County Emergency Management Coordinator Shelly Butts.
"It was spreading northerly so there was some concern it would spread (to Madison County)," Butts said.
Butts said three fire departments from Madison County were helping to fight the fire in Walker County Sunday night until early Monday morning. Residents in the county could see the smoke from the fire, but there had been no evacuations
Interstate 45 and Texas 75 in Walker and Madison counties were closed Sunday, but reopened about 8:30 p.m., Colwell said.
A Walker County dispatcher said everyone who had been evacuated in Walker County because of the fire near Huntsville in the areas including Interstate 45 and F.M. 247 Sunday night remained out of their homes Monday morning, but no homes had been damaged. All roads had been reopened except F.M. 2989.
That fire burned 1,000 acres and was 5 percent contained Monday morning, and 163 homes were evacuated, according to the Texas Forest Service.
Critical fire weather conditions were predicted across a large portion of Texas Monday, and the Texas Forest Service reported it responded to 12 new large fires the day before. On Monday, the forest service was responding to 20 fires that have burned 76,042 acres.
Statewide, 222 of 254 counties have burn bans.
http://www.theeagle.com/police/Authorities-continue-to-fight-Grimes-County-fire-
No sign of smoke on the TRF webcams (at least the ones that are working), so the evacuation may just be precautionary.
Fingers crossed.
New Video Link: http://www.kyte.tv/ch/fox-26-myfoxhoustoncom/raw-video-grimes-county-fire/p=8911&s=1381165
Here is what I can figure from what they are saying is the fire area:
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-aA0WhpUxf5E/Tf_AQP547aI/AAAAAAABfGs/X8COOwjjJd4/Fire.jpg)
They are still stating the fire is moving West and North East so that is still away from TRF. We need prayers for rain and NO SHIFT IN THE WIND. Any shift would threaten Toon Town (as mentioned by Ravic) and TRF.
Quote from: mpullen on June 20, 2011, 04:44:23 PM
No sign of smoke on the TRF webcams (at least the ones that are working), so the evacuation may just be precautionary.
Fingers crossed.
I'll take precautionary! Keeping my fingers crossed!
mpullen.... no smoke on the camera but if you watch that one tree they sure are having some serious wind out there. I hope all of those are clouds and not smoke from the fire heading that way. For those that don't know about the Cam it can be viewed here:
http://www.dragonsquest.com/forums/content.php?117-trfcam
kbtx has a live blog set up http://www.kbtx.com/home/headlines/Brazos_Valley_Wildfire_Live_Blog_124203834.html
it is very active
My Scally Wag is earnestly casting her own spells to send rain to the fire area. She's wearing her blue "water dress", and she's made a bracelet of red-orange cloth to symbolize the fire, as a tiny speck against the overwhelming amount of water in the dress...
(sigh) So far, we've whipped up a few storm clouds here... but hopefully it's just pulling moisture up from the gulf, and will be dropping most of it right where it's needed down there. Still praying... and singing.
Give Scally a hug and kiss from me and everyone else in thanks! :-*
I most certainly will! She's very concerned about all of you down there, and about TRF, as well... we both are. Keep yourselves safe!!!
Direct word from a captain in Navasota FD that's been in the command center all day- TRF is not being evacuated due to fire danger, but because they a have more permanent, stable and air-conditioned staging and evacuation area at the Navasota Elementary School. TRF/Toon Town is not in immediate danger, as the fire is still several miles off, but that could change. A lot of the folks who live in Toon Town have no recourse to recover- no insurance, secondary residences, etc.- if the fire hits them, unlike most home owners. If it hits there, those folks will be devastated, so prayers for rain are most welcome.
Oh, crap... I was a bit off. It just started raining here. It doesn't usually happen this fast, but I don't usually post the song in the forums, either... :-[
I'll keep trying.
Breandan that is good news. I was having a hard time reconciling the different news reports regarding the direction of the fire and the wind direction... seemed a bit off but who knows.... I very well could have been reading it all wrong. ::)
Aunt Clara..errr I mean Rani, just keep at it! We appreciate everyones efforts. :)
Hey... I'm NOT a weather wizard, here! Just an amateur who has stumbled upon an effective formula... but it's not like I push the weather around all the time, or anything. I DID mention what's happened in the past, right? :o
It might not get there, at all... or it might get there sometime tomorrow. But I'm a little worried about what might happen afterward, in a few weeks... :-\
Still praying, as well, though...
KBTX is now saying that te Plantersville evac area is bordered by Hwy 105 on the north, CR 305 on the south, CR 304 to the east, and FM 362 to the west.
If that's the case, then the area between 304 and 1774 isn't considered a threat, right now...
And the evac center is being moved to the school because they have better AC and shelter there.
Ya'll stay safe, please? I don't know any weather spells but care very much for all of you! Too far away to offer shelter but if anyone heads hell-bent for the Dallas area, let me know!
My nephews are out there fighting the fire!
Someone update us please!!
Thank you!
My spells have been pretty lame of late, but I'm sending as much positive energy as I can. With so many friends in the general area, I can't help but be concerned. Take this seriously! These fires have a mind of their own. Stay safe. Your homes can be replaced, you can't.
Thank you Merlin!
Latest report is that this fire is only 10% contained. We had a very light smattering of rain last night. Hoping we get a lot more today!
live blog: http://www.kbtx.com/home/headlines/Brazos_Valley_Wildfire_Live_Blog_124203834.html
UPDATE: Fire fighters in need of additional resources, livestock shelter set up at MidTex, Navasota Livestock Auction
Article by Rosemary Smith of The Navasota Examiner: http://www.navasotaexaminer.com/news/article_5b4df5e4-9ba4-11e0-b522-001cc4c002e0.html
Just saw the latest containment update puts it at 65%!
Firefighters believe they may finally have it under control.
Prayers for all invlolved!
*And rum toasts to all the Firefighters!!*
Quote from: *Teach* on June 21, 2011, 10:46:00 AM
Just saw the latest containment update puts it at 65%!
Firefighters believe they may finally have it under control.
Prayers for all invlolved!
*And rum toasts to all the Firefighters!!*
Was that the fire near Trinity? Or TRF? There are several right now- those two, and one between Madisonville and Huntsville as well.
any idea what resources the firefighters need and where?
Quote from: Breandan on June 21, 2011, 11:18:51 AM
any idea what resources the firefighters need and where?
http://www.navasotaexaminer.com/news/article_5b4df5e4-9ba4-11e0-b522-001cc4c002e0.html
TRF is posting on FB this link that shows a map of all the area fires: http://www.myfoxhouston.com/dpp/news/local/110620-wild-fire-locations-near-houston. Click on the fire icon over Plantersville right now and you get this info:
Dryer Mill Fire (Near Navasota, Plantersville)
Last Updated by myFOXhouston.com 3 hours ago
VIEW PHOTOS -- VIEW NEWS REPORT
---------------
County: Grimes
Report last updated: 06/21/11 7:43 a.m.
First reported: 06/19/11
Status: 10-15% contained, Still burning
Damage: More than 5,000 acres of land burned; 20+ homes burned; 2 persons injured
Got the breakdown of what they need-
High point elementary needs volunteers to help serve food to the firefighters, and the Navasota FD needs the following supplies: any additional bulldozers/front end loaders that can be found, foot spray, lysol, shop towels, eye wash (not drops), and a butt-tonne of water and Gatorade.
Additionally, First Baptist Church in Navasota needs toiletries, bedding, mens clothes and womens work clothes.
Don't forget pet food
I just heard on ktrh radio the fire is only 35% contained.
I read yesterday a church in Magnolia is a drop off point for donating items. I believe it is the Baptist church-the one that is super sized. Might want to call and confirm though.
Still praying for all of you down there!
Posted on the live blog from kbtx:
Care packages can be taken to the Millican Volunteer Fire Dept. for those who have been going out and helping.
Current Needs:
1. Energy Bars and sandwiches for emergency responders taken to High Point Elementary School on 105; they have enough ice, water and drinks.
2. Evening meals for fire fighters still needed
3. The Red Cross is also accepting monetary donations to replinish supplies. This can be taken to the Navasota High School.
How are the people in Toon town?
For folks in the B/CS area: http://www.kbtx.com/home/headlines/Propsperity_Bank_Opens_Account_for_Fire_Victims_Taking_Donations_for_Firefighters_124307389.html
They're also taking cash donations at their other locations. The Eagle newspaper is taking donations of clothing and necessities for evacuees, too.
just got a text from Dolly (she is one of those living in Toon Town) and she said they're hunkered down there and hanging in, waiting to see if they're going to have to leave.
Dogwood Trail subdivision just west of Todd Mission off 302 is being told to evac
Is that the one with all the tree street names, or is that one more to the north?
that's the confusing part- I see severall neighborhoods between Tood Mission and P-ville that have tree names. Even KBTX is confused, now.
Hmm... I believe the one I'm thinking of is almost due north of T.M. and it has a Cypress st. ... pretty sure, anyway.
I just hope they manage to warn everyone who news to be warned!!!
Sheriff has confirmed it's the one off 302, behind faire. feck feck, feck...I have good friends back there.
Just read this fire has now consumed 6100 acres. Still only 35% contained and this is with Blackhawks making water drops. :'(
Praying as hard as I can...
Bad news- containment has dropped to 25%
Good news- they're bringing in C-130s. Huzzah!
Aaand- I just talked with Cpt. Fletcher, who got within 1/4 mile of his family's house before being turned back. 302/304 area looks ok for now, including Evergreen Forest and Cherry Laurel Lanes. Thanks be to God!
frickin' frustrating not being able to do anything to help. *headdesks*
I've been working for Renaissance Leather for a little while now... I just heard about these fires- we were discussing them at lunch. I'm glad to get on here and read that everyone is doing more or less all right. You all know I'll be praying for rain for you.
I'm glad they're safe, at least.
It appears from the radar that the area is getting, or is about to get, some heavy rain. I hope it helps. Any lightning accompanying the storm could make things worse though...
Rain! http://www.kbtx.com/imageViewer?animatedDisplay=on&sourceID=15520157&url=&width=640&height=480&title=
Grimes County folks, please say you're getting plenty of this....
YAY!!! We are getting a nice steady drenching! KBTX blog is reporting STEADY rain also!!! I saw a flash of lightning but did not hear any thunder so the severe part of this storm must be a ways out still. Hoping lightning is at a minimum.
Looks like this rain is supposed to stick around through noon. :)
Thanks be to God! I hope you guys get soaked all day :)
Crossing my fingers the rain helps a bunch!
It's pouring ! SWEET!
It was raining here (For the first time since March) in San Antonio early this morning. This first thing My Love said to me was she hopes the rain makes it there too.
I am so happy that it has.
Prayers for rain and for all those involved still.
And Breandan, I know how you feel. I also wish I was close enough to be more help.
*Rum toasts to the rain Gods!*
I just came in from the pipe yard... I'm soaked to the bone and don't care!!!
Quote from: Tipsy Gypsy on June 22, 2011, 07:10:27 AM
Thanks be to God! I hope you guys get soaked all day :)
I am praying this rain aides in the protection of all the homes and acreage that have been in the danger zone. My prayers go out to everyone who has been impacted by this wildfire.
I believe walking through those TRF gates this fall will be especially sweet for all of us! I am thankful we didn't have to learn the hard lesson of 'you don't know what you've got until it's gone'. TRF is like a homecoming for many of us.
Edit:
Speaking of homecomings....A little something I wrote back in 2007. :)
An Ode to TRF
For many a month we have all been cold sober
But huzzah, huzzah for the month of October!
When fair maidens, brave knights, pirates and wenches
Don their best garb and tighten those cinches!
For all will be gathering in the lanes of yore
To rekindle old friendships and add sparks to many more!
Bellies will be full with offerings from the pantry
And many a merchant will have favors aplenty!
The mead will be flowing, the kegs will be tapped,
The rum will be running, huzzah to that!
A grand time will be had by all this Autumn
As long as the drink does not knock us on our bottoms!
At last all will say we are no longer cold sober,
So Huzzah, Huzzah to the month of October!
As of noon today some evacuation zones will be lifted for residents only. The rain has helped the firefighters but they still have a lot of work to do. Containment still at 35%.
I looked at the weather forecast for that area for today and there will be a lull in the rain for a couple of hours and then build back up again around 2 or 3 this afternoon.
Have you heard where those areas might be? I have friends not on the forums who are wanting to go home. Fingers crossed!
from the kbtx blog:
Here's the biggest news regarding the fire coming from the Grimes County Emergency Management Coordinator
Portions of the mandatory evacuation in place on the Dyer Mills Fire have been lifted for residents only. The first evacuation order was put in place Monday afternoon.
As of noon today, Wednesday June 22, 2011, the evacuations have been lifted on the following areas:
· County Road 202 (Pine Brook Subdivision)
· County Road 201 (Shadow Lake Subdivision)
· County Road 306 through to County Road 362
· FM 1748
· County Road 308
· The roadblock on Country Road 304 has been moved back to the intersection of 304 and 344.
The mandatory evacuation remains IN PLACE for:
· CR 304 from 344 to CR 302
· CR 302 from Lone Star to Micrea
Residents are not permitted to return to these areas. There will be daily assessments on when that can happen safely.
While we recognize the need for people to return home, residents are encouraged to postpone returning to the area for a few more days. If they do choose to return, they are advised to use caution as there are still safety issues in the area: threats from burned trees that could fall, traffic from emergency responders & vehicles, as well as possible downed powerlines and damaged utility poles.
Many thanks! Last time I looked at the blog, they were running nothing but news links about unrelated things.
HUZZAH!!! I am soooo glad it's finally raining down there! I hope it lasts until the fires are all completely out, and the ground is nicely saturated. You all need it... badly.
This steady, soaking rain is exactly what I've been trying to send... but it always takes a little while to get somewhere. :P ;)
Oh good, there's a map: http://media.graytvinc.com/documents/Grimes_Evac_Zone1.pdf
(and you still got it, Rani!)
That looks scary close!!! Of course, it doesn't tell where the actual fire is, but if it's within the yellow area, then there are several neighborhoods that have already been damaged or destroyed... I hope they all have insurance! Mostly, though, I hope they're all safe!
TG, I'm just waiting to see what happens in the next three weeks or so. :o There's always some sort of backlash when the weather is messed with... :-\
here is a link to a map of the fire area. scroll to the bottom of the article/page and you will see an outline
http://www.theeagle.com/local/-Total-devastation-
All I see there is a map of the area, but nothing outlined on it.
that is odd. made a jpg image of it-not sure how well it will view though... let's see
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5228/5861027590_abb06e5c3b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/41799285@N04/5861027590/)
(http://www.flickr.com/photos/41799285@N04/5861027590/) (http://www.flickr.com/people/41799285@N04/)
Thanks, Bonny! Oddly enough, this same image is NOW loading on the link you posted earlier. Not sure why it wasn't earlier, though... ::) Oh, well... at least we can see what's been happening down there, now. Huge area...
Is it still raining?
There's a web site called InciWeb.org - Incident Information System (http://www.inciweb.org/), where Flood and Fire incidents from all over the country are documented.
I heard about it from my Uncle, who lives about 20 miles from the Duckett Fire in Colorado.
Take Care,
David Baldock
75% Contained!!
Wow! Those guys are kicking some booty! That's really good news...
Oh, that's AWESOME!!! Scally and I are both celebrating!!! I hope they can say it's out by tomorrow...
(so, not callin' me "Aunt Clara" NOW, huh?!?) :P ;)
75% and reporting mostly ember fires only now. Looks like all flames are out as far as an official flame. Pray for continued rain to saturate the area. About an hour after the rain ended the roads were all dry already.
Still praying as hard as I can... and singing, as well.
Thanks to all the weather witches & warlocks for saving our faire!
HUZZAH!
Not to mention all those amazing firefighters who put themselves on the line the entire time this, and every other fire, has been burning...
Heroes... every one of them!
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on June 23, 2011, 11:38:02 AM
Not to mention all those amazing firefighters who put themselves on the line the entire time this, and every other fire, has been burning...
Heroes... every one of them!
*yeah, them too...* :D
Well, I do admit that I'm pretty parched after all that singing! I could definitely use a nice, cold cider (or 3)! ;)
*could have done a rain dance, as well, but dancing naked under the moon isn't really recommended for urban apartment complexes...* ::) :D
Rani, your neighbors would have enjoyed the show under the moon.
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on June 22, 2011, 09:41:16 PM
(so, not callin' me "Aunt Clara" NOW, huh?!?) :P ;)
:( :( :( I was really starting to like that name lol! ;D
Yeah, and Rani spelled sideways is Rain! :P
:P :P :P
Great... now EVERYONE is pickin' on me! ::) See if I rain on YOUR fires again! :P
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on June 23, 2011, 03:25:13 PM
:P :P :P
Great... now EVERYONE is pickin' on me! ::) See if I rain on YOUR fires again! :P
I find the dichotomy interesting...dancing under the moonlight invokes more of a 'come on baby light my fire' feel....
Only if you're dancing for the Great Horned God, and invoking the Star Fires... when you dance for the Mother Goddess, and call on the earthly elements it's something altogether different.
It really all depends on your own personal paradigm, however... and, of course, how hot you are. ;)
Quote from: Rani Zemirah on June 23, 2011, 03:25:13 PM
:P :P :P
Great... now EVERYONE is pickin' on me! ::) See if I rain on YOUR fires again! :P
Hey now, we need the rain down here. If I have to, I will go paint all of your neighbor's windows black so you can dance under the moon in privacy. :)
I'll just keep on singing, thanks... ::) :D
I heard on the radio on the way home that the fire is 95% contained.
That is really some good news... HUZZAH! (and many thanks to the men and women who risked their lives to fight the blaze!)
Oh, that's wonderful!!! I hope there will be a bit more rain tonight... at least enough to finish putting it out! I'm so glad this is coming to an end... I know everyone involved, from the firefighters to the evacuees, and even those of us who have friends and loved ones in the danger zone, will breathe a heavy sigh of relief when the all clear is finally given!
I believe the all clear has already been given.
This is good news! I am glad it didn't get worse. Don't even want to think about how bad it would have been if we hadn't had any rain.'
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/metropolitan/7624427.html
Today's report from the Texas Forestry Service:
DYER MILL, Grimes County. 5,280 acres, 95 percent contained. Thirty homes are confirmed destroyed, along with three businesses. More than 1,000 homes and businesses were evacuated, the evacuation order has been lifted. This fire is burning approximately 3 miles east of Whitehall.
That's good, but I'm still waiting for that "100% containment" announcement. With the winds ya'll have been getting down there, it's just not completely safe until it's completely OUT!
We had a light sprinkle early this morning—maybe between 5–6 a.m.—while I was at work. It left a lot of soot all over Homer, the Odyssey, which I just finished cleaning off.
I feel incredibly lucky that that was all I had to deal with. I can only imagine what the folks that actually suffered loss are going through.
Drove through the area of the Walker County Fire today. Today's report on that fire is:
MIDWAY (COWBOY CHURCH), Walker County. 2,412 acres, 90 percent contained. The fire is burning near Huntsville. One hundred sixty-three homes were evacuated near Midway. The fire was burning on both sides of Interstate 45 with crowning in the timber. Eight Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System engines responded from the Houston area to assist in addition to TFS resources, TIFMAS resources have now been released from this fire.
For those familiar with the area this is just North of Huntsville, Texas. Please be kind about my pictures. I was doing 65mph and shooting for everyone to see.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DJQdojUFOsM/TgVo1DpVzLI/AAAAAAABfMo/bn8OnZauhg4/s512/Huntsville-20110624-00955.jpg)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-WJwfmLiEVZw/TgVo1C147FI/AAAAAAABfMs/v_nLuxfn1PI/s512/Huntsville-20110624-00954.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9-96vACEig8/TgVo17ychrI/AAAAAAABfMw/160Nt4GOVLE/s512/Huntsville-20110624-00956.jpg)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AHFd_SWmkLk/TgVo2iN8qQI/AAAAAAABfM0/MEYufmWFSA0/s512/Huntsville-20110624-00957.jpg)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-r8CHbjOT7BQ/TgVo3SwlPtI/AAAAAAABfM4/8Q7PLVacoSw/s512/Huntsville-20110624-00958.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ATunQ4btn9M/TgVo3zVAIbI/AAAAAAABfM8/eTaMMl6ornY/s512/Huntsville-20110624-00959.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-TXrPLRaewq4/TgVo4L3X5cI/AAAAAAABfNA/Eb0CwlVDROc/s512/Huntsville-20110624-00960.jpg)
oh, yeah, those trees will recover very quickly. Good to see the forest is only scorched, not wiped. Trees rebound from that sort of damage fairly easily. Houses, businesses, animals and people... not so much, unfortunately.
They need rain though and here we are again with no rain!
Fire danger is apparently quite high again....
(http://www.ucahonors.org/images/fart.jpg)
Has someone warned the bears? Because I am sure they go where they want to in the woods. ;D
The bad part is that the sign was meant for ants. Not even safe for an ant to fart in the woods let alone a bear. Of course the way they name the fires it could be the bear fart fire of N Texas.
Quote from: MrHyde on June 25, 2011, 07:54:15 PM
Of course the way they name the fires it could be the bear fart fire of N Texas.
Way back in my college days I helped dispatch fire crews on the Gallatin Nat. Forest in Montana and we had a fire called
Froze to Death Fire.
It was near Froze to Death creek (pronounced "crick")
Sometimes the names sort of make sense.
Lately the names have had something to do with the fire. For example from today's updates from the Texas Forestry Service:
The Bearing Fire was named because it was started by a hot wheel bearing. BEARING, Polk and Trinity Counties. 20,222 acres, 85 percent contained. The fire is burning near Carmona. Two homes and six cabins were destroyed and dozens have been evacuated.
The Dyer Mill Fire (the one that we were all concerned about in Grimes County) was named because it started in a bar-b-que pit on Dyer Mill Road. DYER MILL, Grimes County. 5,280 acres, 95 percent contained. Thirty homes are confirmed destroyed, along with three businesses. More than 1,000 homes and businesses were evacuated; the evacuation order has been lifted. This fire is burning approximately 3 miles east of Whitehall.
GOOD NEWS FOR ALL FAMILIAR WITH THE AREA! The Walker County Fire (North of Huntsville, TX on I-45) Is Out. This reported by the Texas Forestry Service: The Midway Fire in Walker County was contained at 2,412 acres.