AUSTIN, Texas — Local leaders are urging Central Texans to prepare as the city of Austin and Travis County are facing increased wildfire dangers.

This week, both Austin Mayor Kirk Watson and Travis County Judge Andy Brown signed disaster declarations, following Gov. Greg Abbott's order to expand the state's wildfire response last week.

"This is our new normal," Watson said. "Sadly, it's a year-round threat – a dangerous, potentially devastating threat that is always present."

Austin ranks fifth in the nation in the number of homes at risk for wildfire. With last month being the fifth driest September on record, city leaders want to make sure the area is prepared. Travis County has been under strict burn bans since last September.

Factors increasing wildfire risk

After the strong rainf

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