A fast-moving wildfire in Palo Pinto County has grown to at least 50,000 acres, prompting evacuations in neighboring Jack County as dangerous fire conditions continue across North Texas.
The Ross Fire began Monday afternoon near U.S. Highway 180 and Ross Watson Road. By Tuesday morning, the fire was only 5% contained, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service.
Officials warn that the situation remains dynamic, as high temperatures, low humidity, dry vegetation, and gusty winds contribute to dangerous fire conditions.
Where the Ross Fire Is Burning
The largest fire is burning in central Palo Pinto County, southeast of Possum Kingdom Lake.
The fire is active from the U.S. 180 area near Palo Pinto toward Texas 337 near Graford. Heavy smoke has been reported from the eastern side of Possum Kingdom Lake toward Mineral Wells and north toward Bridgeport Lake.
The Palo Pinto County Emergency Service District said the fire was initially reported at about 25 acres shortly before 1:30 p.m. Monday. Officials have reported damage to three or four structures, with additional structures at risk.
The Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System Strike Team and Texas A&M Forest Service are assisting local firefighters with bulldozers and aircraft.
A temporary flight restriction is also in effect over the fire area.
Evacuations Ordered in Jack County
The fire has pushed north toward the Jack County line, where mandatory evacuations have been ordered.
Residents in southern Jack County, particularly those near and east of Bartons Chapel and along County Road 2210 toward Highway 281, have been instructed to evacuate.
Another fire is burning in southern Jack County southeast of Highway 4 and FM 2210 and is moving north and east, according to county emergency management officials.
Residents evacuating the area have been instructed to travel east on FM 2210.
An evacuation shelter has been opened at Twin Lakes Recreation Center on Highway 59 in Jacksboro.
The wildfire threat has also affected schools. Jacksboro ISD delayed its start on Tuesday by two hours, while Perrin CISD canceled classes for the day.
Highway 180 Closed
U.S. Highway 180 has been closed between South FM 4 and FM 919 because of the wildfire.
Officials are urging residents who may need additional time to evacuate to leave early rather than wait for conditions to worsen.
The Graham Livestock Commission is also offering its holding station at the Old Mineral Wells Sale Barn for residents who need a temporary location for livestock.
Fire Danger Remains High
The Ross Fire is among several wildfires being monitored west of Interstate 35 as drought and dry vegetation increase the potential for additional fires.
The National Weather Service is warning that fine surface fuels have become critically to extremely dry after more than a month without measurable rainfall.
Southwest winds gusting up to 20 mph Tuesday are expected to increase the grass-fire threat west of I-35.
Nearly every North Texas county has implemented a burn ban, and officials are urging residents to avoid activities that could create a spark or flame.
Residents near the fires should monitor official evacuation instructions and the Texas A&M Forest Service wildfire map for the latest information, as fire conditions and evacuation zones can change rapidly.
Provided by Dallas Express
