Calay News
The electric company Xcel Energy has taken responsibility for the devastating Smokehouse Creek fire, which has ravaged northern Texas for almost two weeks. This fire, the largest in Texas history, has claimed the lives of two individuals and consumed 428,700 hectares of land.
Xcel Energy, headquartered in Minneapolis with operations in various states, issued a statement acknowledging its alleged involvement in the ignition of the Smokehouse Creek fire. According to the company, it “acknowledges that its facilities appear to have been involved in the ignition of the Smokehouse Creek fire.”
The fire has led to the destruction of properties, infrastructure, and livestock, with severe consequences for affected communities. Although the blaze is 74% contained, the total damages have not been fully assessed.
The company faces a lawsuit filed by a resident near the affected area, who holds Xcel Energy responsible for the loss of their home, suggesting issues with neglected wooden poles. Xcel Energy has denied negligence in maintaining its infrastructure but has established a mechanism for affected individuals to file claims.
Meanwhile, two other wildfires still remain active in the Panhandle region, although containment is expected soon, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service. The company also denied responsibility for another wildfire in the same area. The situation highlights the complexity and challenges of managing the impacts of wildfires in Texas.
