Wildfire Update 9-12-23
Photos courtesy of KVFD Captain Jeromy Richardson, Video courtesy of ETB Sharpshooter Ray Boughner
September 12, 2023
It's been another few days of wildfires in our area.
At 1:21 p.m. Tuesday, a fire that began yesterday in Buna next to the high school rekindled. This was on Cr 734. Kirbyville Volunteer Fire Department assisted Buna Fire.
Jasper County Judge Mark Allen said, "The fire was on the perimeter of the property at the Buna school, but has been contained. Buna ISD has sent out notices that school would remain in session and operate as normal".
Soon after they returned to the station, Kirbyville VFD was dispatched to FM 87 just north of Hwy 363 to assist Trout Creek VFD on a brush fire.
Just yesterday, Bon Wier VFD was dispatched to Cr 4075 due to a tree on a powerline. Texas Forest Service and Trout Creek VFD were also on scene.
Also yesterday, Kirbyville and Roganville Fire were called out to a ground cover fire on Cr 459.
A barn fire in Newton County was reported on Sunday at 5:41 p.m. on FM 2626. Newton and Bon Wier VFDs responded. The barn belonging to Robert and Robbye Davis was partially destroyed. Davis said that he had just put new hay under the barn. The cause of the fire is unknown.
Kirbyville VFD Chief Greg Ellis said, "We're supposed to get rain but still need to refrain from burning there is still a burn ban in effect.
Some places may get rain and some lightning. Be aware of your surroundings and your property if you see smoke from a lightning strike or someone burning please report it."
Many people still disregard the burn bans. They are in place for everyone's safety. Penalties for burning illegally are steep and range from a fine to an arrest.
Ellis concluded by saying to our readers, "Thanks for your help! Lets all pray for significant rainfall."
