A wildfire burning across Palo Pinto and Jack counties has grown into the second largest in North Texas history, scorching more than 90,000 acres, destroying over 150 structures and forcing evacuations as firefighters continue battling the blaze more than a week after it ignited.
How Did the Ross Fire Start and How Big Has It Grown?
The fire broke out near the community of Ross in Palo Pinto County just before 1:30 p.m. on August 24, according to the Palo Pinto County Emergency Service District. What began as a roughly 25 acre blaze exploded within days into a massive wildfire burning near U.S. Highway 180 and FM 919. Officials said the fire was sparked after a vehicle blew a tire along the highway. By September 2, the Texas A&M Forest Service reported the fire had burned at least 90,400 acres and was only 38 percent contained, making it the second largest wildfire recorded in North Texas, according to the National Weather Service.
What Damage Has the Fire Caused So Far?
The Texas A&M Forest Service reported that 157 structures, including homes, have been destroyed and another 140 have sustained damage. Firefighters have managed to save 453 additional structures as they continue working to slow the fire’s spread. Among the properties hit hardest was Worth Ranch, a scouting camp operated by the Longhorn Council of Scouting America, where multiple buildings suffered catastrophic damage. Officials said no scouts, campers or guests were on the property when the fire swept through, and the camp’s ranger was evacuated safely.
Which Communities Were Forced to Evacuate?
Jack County Emergency Management ordered residents along County Road 2210 toward Highway 281 to evacuate on August 25 as the fire pushed toward populated areas. Those mandatory evacuations were lifted the following day as conditions improved, though emergency officials continued urging residents who returned home to remain alert given the fire’s continued activity in neighboring Palo Pinto County. The fire also disrupted several area school districts. Jacksboro ISD delayed its start time, while Perrin CISD, Bryson ISD and Graford ISD canceled classes entirely for at least one day before all districts resumed normal operations by August 31.
How Are Firefighters and Volunteers Responding?
The Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System has deployed a strike team alongside the Texas A&M Forest Service, using dozers and aircraft to help contain the fire’s spread. U.S. Highway 180 was closed to all traffic between South FM 4 and FM 919 during the height of the firefighting effort before reopening, and a temporary flight restriction remains in place over the burn area. Local ranchers and volunteers have also mobilized to help displaced animals, with the Graham Livestock Commission opening the Old Mineral Wells Sale Barn as a temporary holding site for livestock. The Humane Society of North Texas has been assisting the Mineral Wells Animal Shelter in clearing space for displaced pets, taking in a dozen dogs and more than two dozen cats from the affected area.
Why Is North Texas Facing Such High Wildfire Risk?
Fire officials point to a combination of dry vegetation, gusty winds and an extended stretch without measurable rainfall as the primary drivers behind the fire’s rapid growth. More than a month without significant rain has left fine surface fuels critically dry across the region, allowing new fires to ignite easily and spread quickly once started. The National Weather Service said it is tracking several additional wildfires burning west of Interstate 35, with the Ross Fire remaining among the largest and most destructive. Residents across North Texas are being urged to avoid any outdoor activity that could produce sparks or open flames until conditions improve.
This story is developing. FOU News will continue to follow developments as authorities and emergency services release new information.
