The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency has authorized the use of federal funds to help fight the Rim Rock Fire in Hays County, Texas, following a request from the state on Nov. 15. At that time, the fire threatened 150 homes and had required evacuation of several subdivisions.

“Fire conditions in Hays County are extreme, and the Rim Rock Fire covered 200 acres and was growing when the state requested federal aid," said FEMA Regional Director William Peterson in a statement to the press. "It is critical that firefighters receive the support they need to protect the public.”

The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75% of state, local and tribal government eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires.