Investigation by forest service into Smokehouse Creek fire says decayed Xcel Energy pole ‘had broken off at ground level’

The biggest wildfire in Texas state history, which killed two people and scorched more than 1m acres, was caused by a power line pole that had decayed at the base, an investigation has concluded.

The finding comes from a Texas A&M forest service investigation into the Smokehouse Creek fire, which blazed through the state’s Panhandle region and into neighbouring Oklahoma after breaking out near the small town of Stinnett on 26 February.

Up to 500 homes and businesses have been destroyed and two people killed in state’s northern Panhandle area

Rain and snow are expected in parts of the Texas Panhandle area starting Thursday, bringing possible respite to the Lone Star state as firefighters continue to battle the largest wildfire in its history.

Up to 500 homes and businesses have been destroyed by the flames as of Monday, and two people have died: Cindy Owen, 44, and Joyce Blankenship, 83. Thousands of cattle have also either been killed or euthanized after being injured in the wildfires.

Planes drop fire retardant on blazes that have destroyed up to 500 homes and businesses but weather change may offer some respite

Firefighters in Texas are battling strong winds and warm temperatures as they work to stop the largest wildfire in state history.

The large Smokehouse Creek fire was 15% contained and two other fires were 60% contained. Authorities have not said what ignited the fires, but strong winds, dry grass and unseasonably warm temperatures fed the blazes.