Thousands of cattle reported missing, dead due to Texas Panhandle fire

Thousands of cattle have reportedly died or gone missing in the massive and historic wildfire in the Texas Panhandle, according to a Friday, March 1, update from Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller. The Texas leader said the “catastrophic” blaze has also caused significant infrastructure damage. 

Miller declared the Smokehouse Creek Fire the largest recorded in Texas and the second-largest fire in the nation’s history, becoming more massive than the top 20 largest wildfires in California in the past 90 years. The Smokehouse Creek fire is still burning and is 37% contained as of Tuesday, March 5, according to a tweet from the Texas A&M Forest Service.

The fire has burned nearly 1.1 million acres in the Texas Panhandle since it started over a week ago on Monday, February 26. The New York Times reported that the fire has killed at least two people, in addition to thousands of cows and other animals.

Miller also stated Hemphill County has reported over a thousand missing or dead cattle, as well as several dead horses, goats, and sheep. He told CNN more than 85% of cattle in Texas are raised in the Panhandle.

“I pledge my ongoing support for our neighbors who have a long road ahead to recovery from this disaster,” Miller stated in his update. “I know of ranchers who have lost everything.”

Miller added the Texas Department of Agriculture will support farmers, ranchers, and residents impacted by the wildfire through agricultural relief funds, essential hay and feed resources, the AgriStress Helpline, and feeding programs. 

The cause of the wildfire is still under investigation, according to the Texas Tribune. Miller said 90% of wildfires are man-made. He’s asking for others to remain vigilant during this time. 

“This nightmare is not over,” Miller said. “I encourage Texans to stand together in solidarity and extend a helping hand to those in need during this challenging time.”