Ross Fire in North Texas Spurs Evacuations

A wildfire that ignited near Ross in Palo Pinto County on Monday has rapidly spread to over 50,000 acres. As of Tuesday, containment efforts have reached 8%, necessitating evacuations in Jack County and impacting local schools, according to North Texas officials.

Scope of the Ross Fire

The Ross Fire has ravaged at least 50,000 acres across Palo Pinto and Jack counties. It burns near U.S. 180 and FM 919. The Texas A&M Forest Service reported the fire’s containment at 8% on Tuesday afternoon. Residents along County Road 2210 towards Highway 281 in Jack County have been directed to evacuate as firefighting teams continue to combat the blaze.

The fire started near Ross just before 1:30 p.m. on Monday, initially affecting 25 acres but expanding swiftly. Reports indicate damage to three or four structures, with more buildings under threat. The Longhorn Council of Scouting America confirmed substantial damage to Worth Ranch in Palo Pinto, although no scouts, campers, or visitors were present during the fire. The camp ranger, Pat Adams, managed to evacuate safely.

Evacuation Orders and Impacted Areas

Evacuation orders apply to Jack County residents along County Road 2210 towards Highway 281. An evacuation shelter has been established at Twin Lake Recreation Center on Highway 59 in Jacksboro. The wildfire has prompted school disruptions, with Jacksboro ISD delaying its start on Tuesday by two hours, and Perrin CISD canceling classes for the day.

Road Closures and Temporary Restrictions

U.S. Highway 180 remains closed to all traffic between South FM 4 and FM 919 due to the wildfire. A Temporary Flight Restriction is also active over the affected area.

Livestock Safety Provisions

The Graham Livestock Commission offers assistance to those with displaced livestock by providing space at the Old Mineral Wells Sale Barn located at 2805 North Oak Ave. This temporary facility serves those needing a temporary place for animals until new arrangements can be made.

Conditions Fueling High Wildfire Risk

The elevated risk of wildfires in North Texas stems from dry vegetation, a scarcity of measurable rainfall, and gusty winds. The National Weather Service is closely monitoring multiple fires west of Interstate 35, with the Ross Fire being a significant concern. Over a month without significant rain has resulted in critically dry surface fuels, making vegetation easily ignitable and allowing fires to spread rapidly. Forecasted southwest winds of up to 20 mph may increase the threat in areas west of I-35.

Authorities urge residents to refrain from outdoor activities that could spark or ignite fires.