~ Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of disaster in 150 counties in Texas due to ongoing drought conditions and increased wildfire danger. This declaration comes after the Governor issued a disaster proclamation on July 8, 2022, which has been amended and renewed in subsequent proclamations.

The Texas Division of Emergency Management has confirmed that exceptional drought conditions persist in certain counties, posing a threat of imminent disaster. As a result, Governor Abbott has exercised his authority under Section 418.014 of the Texas Government Code to amend and renew the previous proclamation.

The affected counties include Angelina, Aransas, Atascosa, Austin, Bandera, Bastrop, Bee, Bell, Bexar, Blanco, Borden, Bowie, Brazos, Brewster, Brooks and many others. Pursuant to Section 418.017 of the Texas Government Code, Governor Abbott has authorized the use of all available resources of state government and political subdivisions to cope with this disaster.

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In addition to this authorization, Governor Abbott has also suspended any regulatory statutes or orders that may hinder necessary action in response to this disaster. This includes any state agency's emergency response efforts that are necessary to protect life or property threatened by the declared disaster.

According to Section 418.016 of the Texas Government Code, any state statute or administrative rule regarding contracting or procurement will be suspended for the duration of this declared disaster if it impedes emergency response efforts.

This proclamation will be filed with applicable authorities as required by law. It was officially signed by Governor Abbott on March 18th, 2026 at his office in Austin and attested by Secretary of State Jane Nelson.

The full text of the proclamation can be viewed on the Governor's website. The declaration serves as a reminder for residents in these affected counties to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions during this time of heightened risk for wildfires.

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