Amarillo and Borger Firefighters Being Sent to California to fight Wildfires

Deputy Coroner Justin Sponhaltz, of the Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office, recovers human remains found at a home destroyed by the Camp Fire, Sunday, Nov. 11, 2018, in Paradise, Calif. (AP Photo/John Locher)

by: Karl Wehmhoener

Posted: Nov 12, 2018 / 10:45 AM CST

Updated: Nov 12, 2018 / 04:20 PM CST

Amarillo and Borger are sending firefighters to help fight wildfires in California.

On Sunday, Governor Greg Abbott announced 200 firefighters with 55 fire engines from local fire departments from across Texas will be deployed to help combat the devastating wildfires currently impacting Southern California.

“When disaster strikes, it is imperative that the call for help is answered, and that is exactly what these men and women serving in fire departments across Texas are doing,” said Governor Abbott. “As California continues to fight these fires, Texas will be sending its bravest firefighters to aid in their efforts. Our prayers go out to all who have been impacted by these devastating wildfires, and the State of Texas will continue to offer any resources to aid in the recovery process.”

Officials in California are reporting the death toll of the two fires is 31 with over 228 people still unaccounted for.

All told, more 8,000 firefighters have battled wildfires that scorched at least 400 square miles of the state, with the flames feeding on dry brush and driven by winds that had a blowtorch effect.

The departments sending crews and engines are: