ALFRED, Texas — Earlier today the Orange Grove Volunteer Fire Department responded to a wildfire that broke out near HWY 359 north of Alice and south of Orange Grove.
Jim Wells County remains under a Red Flag Warning due to the combination of low humidity, high temperatures, and heavy winds. These are the perfect conditions for wildfires to ignite and the thick brush in the area makes it easy for these them to spread.
Unfortunately for the firefighters and local residents, the heavy winds made it exceptionally difficult to contain this blaze and two homes were engulfed by the fire.
While the firefighters and police battled against the elements, they were not able to contain the fire before the homes succumbed to the blaze. According to the property owner, the two homes were currently under renovation and unoccupied at the time.
As of the publishing of this article there have been no injuries or deaths reported as a result of this wildfire. Authorities are urging local residents to heed their warnings about the danger that wildfires pose to our communities.
The cause of this wildfire is currently being investigated by the relevant authorities.
This is a developing story. Check back later for potential updates.
For tips about how to best manage your property and reduce the risk of wildfires, check out our previous article on this topic: