Texas Wildfire Spreads Rapidly as Ross Fire Triggers Evacuations

A Texas wildfire has exploded across North Texas, burning an estimated 50,000 acres in Palo Pinto County and prompting evacuations as firefighters work to slow its spread. Extreme heat, dry conditions, and strong winds are adding to the fire danger. Here's what to know.

Texas wildfire Ross burned down 50,000 acres

Texas Wildfire Explodes to 50,000 Acres Across North

A fast-moving wildfire broke out Monday afternoon in Palo Pinto County, Texas, and quickly grew into a major blaze. 

The Ross Fire has burned about 50,000 acres (78 square miles) so far and forced widespread evacuations across North Texas.

The Texas wildfire was first reported around 1:30 p.m. near Highway 180 and Ross Watson Road, about 60 miles west of Fort Worth.

Dry vegetation and extreme weather helped the flames spread rapidly. 

The fire grew to 18,000 acres within 12 hours and more than doubled in size by Tuesday, moving north toward the Jack County line.

As the fire threatened residential areas, authorities issued mandatory evacuation orders for southern Jack County. 

Nearby residents were also told to be ready to leave if conditions worsened. 

Thick smoke rises as the Ross Fire spreads across Palo Pinto County, Texas

Source: FOX 4 Dallas-Fort Worth

See the 3-day weather outlook for Palo Pinto County and stay informed about heat, wind, and other conditions as the fire continues.

An evacuation center has been set up at the Twin Lakes Community Activity Center in Jacksboro.

Officials closed U.S. Highway 180 and several local roads, including Halsell Ranch Road, FM 4, and FM 2210. 

The public has been urged to avoid the area so emergency crews can move in and out safely.

The wildfire has already destroyed multiple structures, including buildings at Worth Ranch, a well-known youth camp in Palo Pinto County. 

All camp staff were evacuated safely, and no campers were at the site when the fire moved through.

Firefighting remains dangerous as North Texas faces a severe heatwave. Temperatures have reached 109°F, along with high winds and extreme drought. 

Forecasters warn that these conditions will keep wildfire risks high throughout the week.

See current air quality in Jacksboro to stay aware of conditions before spending time outdoors, especially if wildfire smoke is present. 

More than 100 firefighters are battling the blaze, with air tankers dropping water and fire retardant to slow the flames.

Crews are also working to build containment lines and protect structures. 

FEMA has approved a Fire Management Assistance Grant to help Texas cover wildfire suppression costs.

Smoke from wildfires can also affect air quality far from the fire itself. 

As of Tuesday evening, the Ross Fire was only 8% contained. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. 

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