Publisher's Synopsis
Burning Texas: The Smokehouse Creek Fire and the Fight to Save the Lone Star State is a gripping and timely account of the largest and most destructive wildfire in Texas history, and the heroic efforts of the firefighters, volunteers, and residents who fought to contain it.
In late February 2024, a spark ignited a blaze that would consume over a million acres of land, threaten dozens of towns, and claim two lives. The Smokehouse Creek Fire, fueled by dry and windy conditions, raged across the Texas Panhandle and western Oklahoma, creating a wall of flames that could be seen from space. As the fire spread, thousands of people were forced to evacuate their homes, businesses, and farms, while hundreds of firefighters from across the country rushed to the scene to battle the inferno. But the Smokehouse Creek Fire was not just a natural disaster. It was also a human story, full of courage, sacrifice, and resilience. This book tells the stories of the people who faced the fire, from the ranchers who tried to save their cattle, to the journalists who documented the devastation, to the politicians who declared a state of emergency, to the scientists who investigated the causes and consequences of the fire. It also reveals the lessons learned from the fire, and the challenges and opportunities for the future of Texas and its environment. Burning Texas is a must-read for anyone interested in the history, culture, and ecology of the Lone Star State, and the impact of climate change on its landscape and people. It is a thrilling and inspiring tale of survival, heroism, and hope in the face of adversity. Some of the highlights of this book are:- It provides an in-depth and comprehensive coverage of the Smokehouse Creek Fire, based on extensive research, interviews, and eyewitness accounts.
- It explores the historical, social, and environmental factors that contributed to the fire, and the implications for the future of Texas and the world.
- It showcases the diversity and strength of the Texas community, and the remarkable stories of the individuals and groups who helped fight the fire and support the recovery efforts.
- It features stunning photographs and maps that illustrate the scale and scope of the fire and its aftermath.
By reading this book, you will benefit from:
- Gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Texas Panhandle and its people, culture, and natural resources.
- Learning about the science and technology of wildfire management, prevention, and mitigation, and the best practices and policies for dealing with fire emergencies.
- Discovering the inspiring and uplifting stories of the heroes and survivors of the Smokehouse Creek Fire, and how they overcame the challenges and hardships they faced.
- Becoming more aware and informed of the effects of climate change on the environment and society, and the actions and solutions that can help address them.
This book is suitable for:
- Anyone who loves Texas and wants to learn more about its history, geography, and ecology.
- Anyone who is curious and fascinated by wildfires and natural disasters, and wants to know how they happen, why they matter, and what can be done about them.
- Anyone who enjoys reading compelling and engaging non-fiction stories that combine facts, analysis, and human interest.
- Anyone who is looking for a gift for a friend or family member who is interested in any of the above topics.
Don't miss this opportunity to get your hands on this amazing and informative book. Order your copy today, and discover the incredible story of the Smokehouse Creek Fire and the fight to save Texas.
