Greg Abbott issues disaster declaration for 143 counties [Video]

AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration for 143 counties across Texas Monday, as the threat of wildfires increases within the state. 

The Texas Division of Emergency Management also activated additional state emergency response resources to support those responding to wildfires across Texas. 

“As the state continues to experience a hot and dry October, Texas is deploying firefighting resources to support local communities at an elevated risk for wildfires,” Abbott said. 

Of the 143 counties listed, 20 are within East Texas, including:

Drought conditions in Texas are expected to increase threats of wildfires throughout October according to the Texas A&M Forest Service. 

“Texans should take precautions, heed the guidance of state and local officials, and limit activities that can cause a spark. …