Released by The City of Longview:
LONGVIEW, TX - Fire danger continues to exist for the Longview and Gregg County area. City and County Officials are continuing to monitor the situation and are encouraging citizens to be aware of fire safety precautions. Below is an update of the situation in the Gregg County area.
Fires:
Longview and Gregg County emergency responders have been working two fires in the western portion of Gregg County.
The Merrill's Lake Fire, located south of the city of White Oak near Merrill's Lake Road, is considered to be 100% contained. The fire is estimated to have covered approximately 1,200 – 1,500 acres. Plow lines have been constructed. Fire personnel continue to monitor the situation. There are no active evacuations for the Merrill's Lake Fire.
The Moore Fire is considered partially contained with approximately 1,700 acres burned. The Moore Fire is located south of the city of Gladewater near Lincoln Spring Road, Old Gladewater Road, Swamp City Road, and Coal Bottom. During the last operational period, there were no structure loss or fatalities; however there was the loss of an automobile belonging to a resident. Evacuations are still active for the Swamp City Road area and the Coal Bottom area. Before the evacuation can be lifted, officials will be evaluating impact on infrastructure such as electricity and oil and gas lines in the area.
Smoke and Air Quality:
The East Texas area continues to be blanketed by smoke from area fires. The smoke tends to settle in the morning and evening. The majority of the smoke seen over the Gregg County area is seen from fires occurring in counties to the north.
With all the smoke and other particles in the air, people with a history of respiratory symptoms are cautioned to stay indoors.
In addition, officials encourage residents to refrain from calling 9-1-1 about general smoke in the air unless the resident sees a column of smoke or sees the fire that is the source of the smoke.
Donations and volunteers:
Generous citizens have provided many donations including more than 1,000 cases of water, hundreds of bottles of sports drinks, and many non-perishable food items. The donations have been distributed to area emergency responders.
No items are being requested at this time; however, to inquire about making donations to support public safety personnel, please call 903-237-1379. To inquire about donations for fire victims, please call the local Red Cross at 903-753-2091.
No volunteers are needed at this time except for qualified firefighters.
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