In the last several weeks, our nation has been hit hard with earthquakes, hurricanes, and wild fires. In central Texas, they are desperate for firefighters to help contain the fire that has already destroyed 500 homes.
Anyone who has any firefighting experience is asked to call 512-978-1187. There have been 5,000 people evacuated from their homes, and livestock is another pressing issue. Trailers are needed to help move these animals out of harm’s way. Low humidity, wind and drought conditions are contributing to the spread of this fire. Since December, 3.6 millions acres have burned in Texas alone.
With other areas of the country facing severe flooding and rain-soaked conditions from Tropical Storm Lee, it’s even more frustrating that there isn’t a way to channel all of that water to where it’s really needed. There is no rainfall predicted in Central Texas, and the region has not received more than what would be considered a drop in the bucket for a year now. The Bastrop County Complex fire has grown to 16 miles in length. It is the worst single fire in the state of Texas.
Texas Gov. Rick Perry, a frontrunner GOP presidential candidate, has canceled an appearance in South Carolina to return to Austin, and may not attend a California Republican debate Wednesday.
Bathrop is just 29 miles east of Austin, with a large population of the state living in this area. The Bastrop-Austin corridor has grown substantially in the last several years, providing the perfect elements for a major fire disaster.
A 20-year-old mother and her 18-month-old infant were killed in the wildfire when they became trapped in their home. Now is the time for anyone who is able to come to Central Texas and help where it is truly needed.
Less than a week after two large earthquakes hit in areas that aren’t accustomed to seismic activity — Colorado and Virginia — Hurricane Irene hit the East Coast, knocking out power for millions and killing at least 18 people.
Tropical Storm Lee roared across the South over the Labor Day weekend, dumping a foot of rain in the New Orleans area. In Livingston Parish, La., 200 families had to be evacuated because of flooding.
Fortunately, Hurricane Katia appears to have weakened and the worst of its impact is likely to be large swells on the Eastern seaboard.
Though I don’t believe all of these disasters are a sign or punishment from God for wrongdoing, I do believe it is a sign that we should all come together and help those who are in need, regardless of where we might be divided.