The Ross Fire has destroyed 157 structures and damaged 140 more across Palo Pinto County as the massive North Texas wildfire enters its second week at 31% containment.
The Texas A&M Forest Service listed the Ross Fire at an estimated 85,303 acres and 31% containment Monday, one week after it ignited near Ross in Palo Pinto County before spreading into Jack County. The acreage and containment figures remained unchanged from the weekend.
The blaze began August 24 and quickly became the second-largest wildfire recorded in North Texas, as previously reported by The Dallas Express. The fire had already surpassed 85,000 acres by Friday.
Ross Fire Damage Assessment
A Texas A&M Forest Service damage assessment documented significant losses in Palo Pinto County. The assessment found:
- 18 occupied residences were destroyed, three suffered major damage, and 10 sustained minor damage.
- Seven unoccupied residences were destroyed, and one had minor damage.
- 74 outbuildings were destroyed, 20 had major damage, and 43 had minor damage.
- 58 other structures were destroyed, 20 had major damage, and 43 had minor damage.
Overall, the assessment identified 157 destroyed structures, 43 with major damage, and 97 with minor damage.
Firefighters also protected 453 structures from the fire.
Crews continue containment operations
More than 440 first responders from across Texas were working the fire late Sunday, FOX 4 reported. Firefighters used engines, bulldozers and aircraft to strengthen containment lines and attack hot spots.
Crews also battled flare-ups and spot fires that crossed containment lines over the weekend while reinforcing the fire perimeter in rugged terrain.
Investigators have not determined the cause of the Ross Fire. Fire officials continue working to increase containment and protect homes and other structures in the affected area.
Provided by Dallas Express
