Governor Rick Perry Asks Texans to Pray for Rain

Governor Rick Perry is calling on Texans to pray for rain, as the 4th worst drought in the state’s history shows no sign of letting up, and firefighters continue battling wildfires that have charred more than one and a half million acres across the state.

Perry also asked Washington for increased federal help in combating the fires and urged Texans to ask the same from a higher power over the Easter holiday weekend.

“Throughout our history, both as a state and as individuals, Texans have been strengthened, assured and lifted up through prayer,” Perry said in a statement.  “It is fitting that Texans should join together in prayer to humbly seek an end to this ongoing drought and these devastating wildfires.”

A wave of moisture and cooler weather is already helping the roughly 1,800 firefighters and support crews contain nine fires and make headway against many others.

But officials warn that conditions fueling the fast-moving wildfires that killed two volunteer firefighters and destroyed 200 homes this month will not ease for good.

via Texas governor calls for prayers for rain amid fires | Reuters.

Virtually the entire state is now under legally enforceable bans on outdoor burning. Local and state officials are urging people to not burn anything outdoors, and they vow to prosecute violators to the fullest extent of the law.