Lightning Sparks Inferno in Texas: Mandatory Evacuations Ordered as Wildfire Burns Out of Control

Lightning sparks Texas wildfire

Mandatory evacuations activated

More than 14,000 acres burned

A massive wildfire forced communities in Canyon to evacuate after flames spread rapidly Thursday afternoon.

The blaze, identified as the Hunggate Fire, began after a storm cell moved through Randall County, producing multiple lightning strikes across the region.

The lightning ignited dry grassland areas, creating several fire outbreaks that quickly expanded.

By Thursday night, the wildfire had consumed more than 14,000 acres and was only 10% contained.

Mandatory evacuations and structures at risk

Texas Hunggate Wildfire Sparked by Lightning-Photo: Shutterstock

As the flames continued advancing, authorities issued mandatory evacuation orders for areas near Chaparral Villas.

Officials also ordered evacuations near 13th Avenue in Randall County, where the fire is threatening homes and additional structures.

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Teams from the Texas A&M Forest Service and several local fire departments are actively working to stop the fire’s advance.

Meanwhile, residents have been urged to leave the area immediately and avoid returning until further notice.

Drought conditions worsen the emergency

The severe drought affecting the region has become a major factor in the wildfire’s rapid spread.

Dry grass and strong winds allowed the flames to move quickly within hours, complicating containment efforts.

Authorities asked residents to avoid any activity that could create additional sparks or ignite new fires.

Recommendations include:

Avoid parking vehicles on dry grass

Do not conduct outdoor burning

Avoid dragging chains that could create friction sparks

One of three active wildfires in Texas

The Hunggate Fire was not the only wildfire reported in Texas that day, as at least two additional fires ignited Thursday.

The simultaneous outbreaks have increased pressure on emergency crews operating across multiple areas.

Authorities also urged drivers to exercise extreme caution near areas where firefighting crews and heavy equipment are operating.

As evacuations continue and both aerial and ground firefighting operations intensify, officials say the top priority remains protecting lives and preventing the wildfire from spreading further across northern Texas, according to Fox Weather.