Austin firefighters among 200 from Texas headed to California to battle wildfires

About 200 firefighters and 55 fire engines from fire departments across the state are being sent to Southern California to help battle devastating wildfires, Gov. Greg Abbott announced Sunday.

The deployment, which also will include teams from the Texas A&M Forest Service, will begin Monday morning.

The Austin Fire Department, the Round Rock Fire Department and Lake Travis Fire Rescue are among more than 40 local departments sending resources, the governor’s office said.

Abbott made the announcement as three wildfires, including the most destructive one in the state’s history, continued to rage Sunday. As of Sunday night, the fires had killed 25 and burned thousands of acres.

“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,” Abbott said. “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.”