Today at approximately 4:45 p.m., while traveling up Jackson Road to the intersecting of FM 1486 and Jackson, I noticed a large billowing smoke cloud.  Definitely a very fresh cloud of orange and purple smoke.  While traveling north on FM 1486 to Highway 105, I noticed the smoke became much clearer.  I crossed over Highway 105 to Mock's and parked.

Upon my arrival, I exited my vehicle and approached a couple of gentlemen standing outside the store and inquired about the fire.  The gentlemen explained that it was probably a cigarette butt that caused the fire and that it was actually located on FM 1774 between FM 1486 and Highway 105.  This is the border of Grimes County and Montgomery County.

With the wind speed at approximately 15 to 20 mph east south east, this means this wildfire will travel to Montgomery County in a matter of an hour or two at most. 

Folks, prepare your lawns, backyards, side yards, trees and grass by saturating everything within range of your home.  This fire grew significantly in such a limited timeframe, from the time it took me to walk into the store, purchase 4 bales of hay and walk out to load.  In other words, I was back at Jackson Road and FM 1486 within 15 minutes and the fire was twice the size it was upon my departure.

Most of us are on wells.  Regardless, the Dobbin/Plantersville Water Department had plenty of water, though with the fire's location in its backyard, it may not have water for long.  Please saturate your yards to the best of your ability.  Make certain your animal tubs are filled to the brim with water; they will need the extra water with the smoke.

Also, for those of you who smoke, we beg of you to keep a cup of water or can of soda, or some other container in your car for your cigarettes.  The grass may look green in some spots, but it is a tremendous fire hazard.  People may not see you toss your cigarette out of the window, but do you really want that on your conscious, knowing you were the one who incited the fire and perhaps caused the loss of a home?

The photographs attached to this article are taken at the corner of Jackson Road and FM 1486 and again at Highway 105.  The third photo is taken 16 minutes later upon my return at FM 1486 and Jackson Road.  Say a prayer that no one suffers as a result of this fire.