Comal County Judge Sherman Krause initially issued the declaration Oct. 21, and on Oct. 24, the Commissioners Court approved an extension for up to 30 days.
The details
The disaster declaration was prompted by the county’s Keetch-Byram Drought Index reaching 709, signaling a critical fire risk.
As of Oct. 24, the KBDI had risen to 713, with Comal County among the driest areas in Texas, Fire Marshal Kory Klabunde said.
The declaration restricts several outdoor activities to prevent wildfires, including:
- Outdoor welding
- The use of explosives
- Open-flame cooking without proper safety measures
What’s next?
The disaster declaration will remain in effect for up to 30 days, with the Commissioners Court set to revisit the situation as conditions evolve.
Residents are urged to follow all safety restrictions, including applying for hot work permits, which are required for welding, cutting or grinding metal, Klabunde said.
These permits are available on the fire marshal's website.
According to the fire marshal’s office, the hot work permit system ensures that individuals conducting such activities take proper precautions, such as having a spotter and water source nearby to prevent potential fires.
Comal County is one of the 143 counties under a statewide disaster declaration issued by the governor as the drought continues to worsen across Texas, Klabunde said.
