Firefighters from East Texas are aiding efforts to control raging wildfires in the Texas Panhandle, highlighting a coordinated statewide response.

TYLER, Texas — As smoke and fire stretch across the Texas Panhandle, firefighters from East Texas are stepping in to help. 

The Longview Fire Department and the Smith County Emergency Services District 2 have sent personnel to support the ongoing wildfires.

According to officials, Longview personnel have been staged in Amarillo as part of a coordinated statewide response.

The deployment includes four Emergency Medical Task Force members and one Medical Incident Support Team member, who are providing medical support.

Longview has also sent personnel under the Texas Division of Emergency Management and the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System.

Alongside this effort, SCESD 2 firefighters have been sent to Pampa, north of Amarillo, where they are helping fight the Lavender Fire. The blaze has burned more than 12,000 acres.

According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, it has been 20% contained as of Feb. 19.

Officials say SCESD 2 crews could remain on scene for up to two weeks before being relieved by a new strike team. Their deployment was also made through a TIFMAS request from the State of Texas.

This response ensures resources are positioned where they are needed most to fully contain the blaze, fire officials said.

East Texas firefighters deployed to Panhandle to help fight wildfires