Texas Wildfires Prompt Disaster Declaration, Shut Down Nuclear Plant
Operations at the Pantex Plant, the United States' primary nuclear weapons assembly and disassembly facility, were briefly suspended due to the encroachment of the Smokehouse Creek Fire in the Texas Panhandle. The wildfire, which has grown to cover 500,000 acres, prompted the evacuation of non-essential personnel from the plant. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a disaster declaration for 60 counties as the fire continues to rage, with no containment reported.
The Pantex Plant has since resumed normal operations, with all nuclear weapons and special materials reported to be secure and unaffected by the fire. The impact of the wildfires extends beyond the facility, as local farmers and ranchers face losses and widespread damage. The situation remains critical with strong winds and dry conditions aiding the fire's spread, and power outages affecting thousands of energy customers. The Texas Division of Emergency Management has been tasked to support local firefighting efforts. Despite the ongoing danger, the Pantex Plant has instructed its employees to return to their regular shifts.
