Woodville Tire Fire – Cause Identified, 80% Contained

Heavy black smoke rises from the Woodville Tire Center fire on Saturday evening as emergency crews from across the region responded. Photo by Rita Shipp.

WOODVILLE, Texas – Officials have confirmed that the large fire at the Local Sanitation Facility in Woodville was caused by a lightning strike. As of Tuesday, the blaze is 80% contained, according to Tyler County Emergency Management.

The U.S. Fire Pumps Haz Mat team remains on site, working alongside local crews to ensure the fire is fully controlled. Air quality continues to test safe, though responders are closely monitoring conditions.

The EPA confirmed the lightning strike as the cause in an official report and noted that while smoke releases from burning tires can pose risks, federal and state agencies are coordinating efforts to minimize impacts. Responders are using heavy machinery to separate tire piles, which helps prevent flare-ups.

The Texas Poison Center advises that anyone experiencing health concerns potentially related to the fire should contact their medical provider or call 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.

Community Support

Tyler County Emergency Management expressed gratitude for both emergency responders and the local community.

• Texas A&M Forest Service provided critical support and equipment.

• Local businesses, including Brookshire Brothers, McDonald’s, Whataburger, Walmart, and Pizza Hut, donated food and supplies.

• Terry and Dacia Hensarling personally purchased, cooked, and served meals to firefighters during the height of the fire.

Tyler County Emergency Management added:

“We can’t thank this community enough for the support you gave during this fire. It was hot, we were all tired, but your encouragement lifted us. THANK YOU,” officials said in a statement.