Ross Fire Spurs Evacuations As North-Central Texas Blaze Spreads Rapidly
The Ross Fire spread rapidly across north-central Texas on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, forcing mandatory evacuations, school closures and emergency shelters as firefighters raced to contain the blaze.[1]
By Tuesday the wildfire had burned more than 78 square miles (200 square kilometers) across two rural counties about 60 miles west of Fort Worth, and at least five structures were destroyed.[1]
The Ross Fire began early Monday afternoon, August 24, 2026. Fire crews and local officials have opened evacuation centers for residents and for livestock, and some school districts closed as authorities tracked the fire. Palo Pinto County Fire Chief Danny Watkins said crews "have thrown everything at the fire" but have achieved only minimal effect so far.[1]
County leaders urged residents to follow evacuation orders and to use the emergency shelters until officials declare it safe to return.
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📌 Key Facts
- Ross Fire began early Monday afternoon, August 24, 2026, in north-central Texas.
- By Tuesday, August 25, 2026, the wildfire had burned more than 78 square miles (200 square kilometers) across two rural counties about 60 miles west of Fort Worth.
- At least five structures have been destroyed, evacuations and school closures are underway, and evacuation centers have opened for residents and livestock.
- Palo Pinto County Fire Chief Danny Watkins said crews have thrown everything at the fire but achieved only minimal effect so far.
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