A fast-moving wildfire in North Texas has grown to at least 83,000 acres, prompting evacuations, road closures and school disruptions in Palo Pinto and Jack counties as firefighters work to slow the blaze.
The Ross Fire began shortly before 1:30 p.m. Monday near Ross in Palo Pinto County. It initially covered about 25 acres but expanded rapidly amid dry vegetation, strong winds, and limited rainfall.
The Texas A&M Forest Service reported early Wednesday that the fire was 12% contained.
Fire Spreads Across Palo Pinto and Jack Counties
The Ross Fire is burning near U.S. 180 and FM 919, with the affected area extending across Palo Pinto and Jack counties.
Fire officials said the blaze grew by tens of thousands of acres in a matter of hours. More than 100 firefighters have been working to contain the fire, with additional personnel, dozers and aircraft brought in to assist.
Palo Pinto County Emergency Services District officials said the combination of extremely dry fuels and weather conditions has made containment difficult.
“The primary objective for the day is structural protection,” Palo Pinto County ESD Chief Danny Watkins said, adding that firefighters were working to protect homes and other buildings wherever possible.
At least five structures have been reported destroyed or damaged, although officials said additional assessments were still needed.
The Longhorn Council of Scouting America also reported catastrophic damage at Worth Ranch in Palo Pinto County. No scouts, campers, or guests were at the property when the fire reached the area, and the camp ranger was safely evacuated.
Evacuations and Shelter Operations
Evacuation orders have affected portions of Jack County as the fire and spot fires continue to threaten nearby communities.
Residents along County Road 2210 toward U.S. 281 were instructed to evacuate. Officials established an evacuation center at Twin Lake Recreation Center on Highway 59 in Jacksboro.
Authorities have urged residents to stay away from active fire areas while crews continue working to control hotspots and protect structures.
No injuries have been reported in connection with the fire, according to officials.
Schools Affected by the Wildfire
The fire has also disrupted school schedules across the area.
Graford ISD canceled classes Wednesday because of ongoing evacuations, power outages and road closures. Bryson ISD also canceled classes, while Perrin CISD delayed its start until 10:30 a.m., with buses running two hours late.
District officials said they made the decisions with the safety of students, employees, and families in mind.
Roads Closed as Crews Battle Fire
Several roads have been closed because of the wildfire and hazardous conditions.
U.S. Highway 180 is closed between South FM 4 and FM 919. Other closures reported by Palo Pinto County officials include portions of FM 4, Highway 254, and Highway 337.
A temporary flight restriction is also in effect over the fire area as firefighting aircraft operate in the region.
Drivers are being urged to avoid closed areas and follow instructions from emergency officials.
Livestock and Animal Shelters Provide Assistance
The wildfire has also created challenges for livestock and pets displaced from threatened areas.
The Graham Livestock Commission is offering temporary space for livestock at the Old Mineral Wells Sale Barn at 2805 North Oak Ave. The facility is available to residents who need temporary accommodations for animals while making other arrangements.
The Humane Society of North Texas is also assisting with animal shelter capacity. The organization is helping the Mineral Wells Animal Shelter make room for pets displaced by the wildfire, with 12 dogs and 26 cats expected to be transferred to the Fort Worth shelter Wednesday.
Dry Conditions Fuel Wildfire Threat
The Ross Fire comes as much of North Texas faces elevated wildfire danger.
The region has gone more than a month without measurable rainfall, leaving grasses and other fine fuels critically to extremely dry. Those conditions allow fires to ignite easily and spread rapidly.
Gusty southwest winds, with speeds reaching about 20 mph, have further increased the threat west of Interstate 35.
The National Weather Service is monitoring several wildfires in the region and has warned residents to avoid outdoor activities that could create sparks or flames.
Additional State Resources Deployed
Texas officials have requested and deployed additional resources as the fire continues to spread.
Gov. Greg Abbott said Tuesday that the Federal Emergency Management Agency approved a Fire Management Assistance Grant for the Ross Fire. The assistance can help support firefighting operations and provide additional resources, including aircraft, medics, ambulances and all-terrain vehicles.
Local and state agencies continue to work together as firefighters battle the blaze and assess damage.
With the fire still only 12% contained early Wednesday, officials are urging residents in affected areas to monitor evacuation notices and emergency updates closely.
Provided by Dallas Express
