Multiple Prescribed Burns Planned Today Across East Texas

Officials with the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas are conducting multiple prescribed burns today, February 9, 2026, across several East Texas counties.

Residents in affected areas may see smoke, aerial firefighting activity, and ground crews, and officials are urging the public to use caution while traveling near burn sites.

Sam Houston National Forest — San Jacinto County

The Sam Houston Ranger District is conducting a controlled burn today in San Jacinto County.

• Start Time: 10:30 a.m.

• Location: Along Forest Service Road 221 (Red Road), one mile south of the FM 2666 and Red Road intersection

• Area: South of FM 2666 and east of FM 2025

• Compartment: 111

• Size: 1,631 acres

• Wind: South/Southwest

• Type: Aerial (helicopter ignition)

• Estimated Completion: 5:30 p.m.

Smoke may be visible from FM 2025 and FM 2666. Detour routes are available along pipelines and dozer lines for portions of the Lone Star Hiking Trail near the burn area.

For more information: (936) 649-2840

Sabine National Forest — Shelby County

Officials with the Angelina Sabine Ranger District are also conducting a prescribed burn in Shelby County.

• Ignition Time: 11:00 a.m.

• Location: Boles Field Northeast

• Forest/Unit: Sabine National Forest — Block B only

• Compartments: 13 & 14

• Size: 2,035 acres

• Type: Aerial

• Estimated Completion: 6:00 p.m.

• Smoke Impact: Drift smoke may be noticeable near Huxley

Information line: (936) 897-1068 or (409) 625-1940

Angelina National Forest — San Augustine County

A third prescribed burn is planned today in San Augustine County near Broaddus.

• Ignition Time: 11:00 a.m.

• Forest/Unit: Angelina National Forest — Bannister West, Block F

• Compartment: 16

• Size: 2,269 acres

• Type: Hand ignition

• Estimated Completion: 7:00 p.m.

• Smoke Impact: Drift smoke may be noticeable throughout the area

Information line: (936) 897-1068 or (409) 625-1940

Polk County — Near Onalaska

According to Polk County Emergency Management, a prescribed burn is also planned today in Polk County.

• Time: Approximately 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

• Size: 500 acres

• Location: North of Onalaska, west of Old Groveton Road (FM 3459) and Wells Landing Road

What Residents Should Know

Officials warn that:

• Smoke may reduce visibility on nearby roads and highways

• Long-range drift smoke may linger even after ignition is complete

• Ground personnel and equipment will be operating in burn areas

Drivers are urged to slow down, use headlights when necessary, and remain alert while traveling near any prescribed burn zones.

Maps of the projected burn areas have been provided by the Forest Service to help residents plan accordingly.