How you can help victims of the Texas Panhandle wildfires

The largest wildfire in Texas history remained stable overnight and is currently 5% contained, according to officials.

The Texas A&M Forest Service reported on Friday morning that firefighting efforts in the Texas Panhandle have received some assistance from rain and snow. However, the National Weather Service predicts conditions conducive to wildfires will persist in certain areas throughout the weekend.

The devastating fires have claimed the lives of two individuals and left behind a landscape marred by scorched prairie, deceased livestock, and destroyed homes in the Texas Panhandle.

Captain Brandon Terry from Dallas Fire-Rescue, one of the approximately 12 firefighters from Dallas assisting in the area, described the scene as one of natural devastation, with numerous structures destroyed and extensive damage to the land.

Several other North Texas fire departments have also dispatched crews to aid in firefighting efforts.

Financial contributions are being solicited to assist those affected by the wildfires. The Amarillo Area Foundation, covering 26 counties in the Texas panhandle, is among the organizations collecting donations for disaster relief efforts.

Efforts are also underway by various organizations to support affected farmers, ranchers, and residents. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Texas Farm Bureau, Texas Department of Agriculture, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, and Texas Baptist Men are actively involved in providing assistance and collecting donations.

The American Red Cross is responding to the crisis by providing essential aid to affected residents. Donations to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief fund enable the organization to respond effectively to the needs of wildfire victims.

Those interested in volunteering can reach out to the Texas Panhandle Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) for coordination and support.

Additionally, GoFundMe has established a Texas Wildfire Relief Hub to gather verified fundraisers dedicated to aiding individuals and communities impacted by the wildfires in the Panhandle.