The rapid expansion of the second-largest wildfire in Texas history has decelerated due to falling snow and a decrease in winds and temperatures.

Despite these factors, the colossal blaze remains uncontrolled, posing a persistent threat of further casualties and destruction.

The Smokehouse Fire, the most extensive among several significant fires in the rural Panhandle region, has scorched 1,300 square miles (3,370 square kilometers) and has extended into Oklahoma.

Firefighters have struggled to contain the blaze, achieving only 3% containment, the Associated Press reported.

However, Thursday’s weather forecast, which includes snow, rain, and temperatures in the 40s, presents an opportunity for progress before conditions worsen with rising temperatures and winds over the weekend.

While the exact cause of the fires remains undisclosed, the combination of strong winds, dry grass, and unusually warm temperatures has fueled the infernos.

Although the forecast predicts less than an inch of snow, National Weather Service meteorologist Samuel Scoleri emphasizes that moisture is not the sole advantage.

The precipitation is expected to cease on Thursday afternoon, and dry, windy conditions are anticipated to return on Friday, with critical fire conditions potentially resurfacing on Saturday and Sunday.

As of now, the confirmed death toll stands at one, an 83-year-old woman.

However, as the flames continue to threaten a broad area, authorities have not yet conducted a comprehensive search for victims or assessed the extent of damage to numerous homes and other structures.

Written by B.C. Begley