Field Fire on East 50th Street Remains a Concern

LUBBOCK, TX — The field fire that began on August 21 at East 50th Street and East Loop 289 continues to be a concern for Lubbock, as smoldering smoke remains visible. The Lubbock Fire Department wants residents and business owners in the area to know that mitigation efforts are ongoing.

On August 21, 2024, shortly after 3:30 p.m., Lubbock Fire Rescue received multiple 911 calls reporting a field fire near the intersection of East 50th Street and East Loop 289.

Quint 10, Engine 5, Brush 5, and Engine 1 were dispatched to the scene. Quint 10 arrived to find a large field on fire. Due to dry ground conditions, wind, and difficult access, additional units were requested from Lubbock Fire Rescue, Lubbock Public Works, Lubbock County, and the Texas A&M Forest Service.

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of all agencies involved, fire breaks were established, and the fire was 100% contained, affecting approximately five acres. However, the site continues to produce smoke because the field was an old dumpsite for debris from the 1970 Lubbock tornado, and underground materials continue to burn.