Texas Fires Nuclear Weapons Facility Oil Refining Threat

Texas wildfires threaten oil refining, nuclear weapons plant, and cattle ranches. Evacuations ordered, with potential impact on beef prices.

Raging wildfires are currently wreaking havoc in Texas, posing a threat to various industries, from oil refining to cattle ranching, and even prompting the evacuation of the main US nuclear weapon assembly plant.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared a disaster in 60 counties as four fires continue to ravage the Panhandle, scorching nearly 320,000 acres (1,295 square kilometers). The largest fire at Smokehouse Creek remains uncontrolled, as reported by the Texas A&M Forest Service.

Pantex, the primary US facility for nuclear weapons assembly and disassembly, has evacuated workers and halted operations, ensuring that "all weapons and special materials are safe and unaffected," according to a statement posted on X (formerly known as Twitter).

While wildfires are not uncommon in Texas at this time of year, the state has been experiencing a series of disruptive seasons that have caused widespread damage in the Texas Panhandle, a crucial region for ranching and meatpacking. The US cattle herd is already at its lowest in decades, and further losses could lead to higher beef prices.

Governor Abbott warned of continued "hot and dry conditions" due to high temperatures and windy weather, which could exacerbate the wildfires in the region, increasing their size and danger.

In response to the high winds making it unsafe for some residents to travel and evacuate, officials have ordered residents in the Panhandle cities of Canadian, Fritch, and Glazier to shelter in place, as reported by the Texas Tribune.

The disaster proclamation also includes Hutchinson County, home to Phillips 66's Borger refinery. The company has not yet responded to requests for comment sent outside regular business hours.

As the situation continues to unfold, the impact of these wildfires on various industries and communities in Texas remains uncertain. The ongoing threat highlights the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of natural disasters.