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Cover Story

Grades 4-6

Fires Rage in Three States

Firefighters in Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma have been struggling to control dozens of fires that started last month. The fast-moving blazes destroyed small towns and damaged more than 500,000 acres of grassland. At least five people have been killed. Texas, which is suffering a drought, was hit especially hard.

Although most of the fires were under control by late last week, alerts will remain in effect. Weather forecasters in all three states were predicting more fires over the week-end because of expected hot temperatures and high winds. Until the rain arrives, firefighters, including some from neighboring states, remain ready to battle more blazes. "We're not out of danger yet," said Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry. "We can't let our guard down."

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