The Ross Fire continues to burn across Palo Pinto and Jack counties more than two weeks after it began, with the wildfire having scorched about 90,400 acres and reached 76% containment as of Sept. 10.
The blaze has destroyed 157 structures and damaged another 140, while firefighting crews have protected or saved 453 structures in the affected area.
The fire, which began near Ross on Aug. 24, has become the second-largest wildfire in North Texas. It is burning near U.S. 180 and FM 919 as crews work to strengthen containment lines and control remaining active areas.
Fire grew rapidly after Aug. 24 start
The wildfire was first reported shortly before 1:30 p.m. Aug. 24 near Ross in Palo Pinto County. It was initially estimated at about 25 acres before spreading rapidly through dry vegetation.
The fire eventually crossed into Jack County and prompted evacuation orders for some residents. Mandatory evacuations along County Road 2210 toward Highway 281 were lifted the following day as conditions improved, although residents in fire-affected areas have continued to be urged to remain alert.
Investigators later determined that the fire originated from equipment or vehicle use associated with a roadside start after a vehicle tire blew on U.S. 180. Officials said they could not conclusively identify the specific ignition source.
More than 150 structures destroyed
The fire has caused extensive damage to homes and other structures across the affected counties.
Among the properties damaged was Worth Ranch in Palo Pinto, where multiple buildings suffered catastrophic damage. No scouts, campers or guests were at the property when the fire reached the area, and the camp ranger was safely evacuated.
The latest damage assessment lists 157 structures destroyed and 140 damaged. Firefighters have also saved 453 structures from the advancing fire.
Firefighters continue containment efforts
Fire crews continue working with heavy equipment and aircraft as they attempt to secure more of the fire perimeter.
The Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System has supported the response with additional firefighting resources, including dozers and aircraft. Crews are also watching areas where previously burned vegetation and timber could allow flames to rekindle.
The increase to 76% containment represents progress from earlier in the week, when containment was reported at 57%.
Containment does not mean the fire has been extinguished. It refers to portions of the perimeter where crews have established lines intended to prevent the fire from spreading.
Dry and hot weather remains a concern
Weather conditions continue to be an important factor in the firefighting effort.
The area around Palo Pinto remains hot, with the National Weather Service forecasting temperatures near or above 100 degrees on several days. Rain chances remain limited, while southerly winds could produce occasional gusts.
The region has also experienced an extended period of limited measurable rainfall, leaving fine fuels and vegetation exceptionally dry. Those conditions can allow flames to spread quickly and make remaining hotspots more difficult to control.
On Sept. 10, thunderstorms moved across portions of Palo Pinto County, producing gusty winds and small hail in some areas. However, the weather system did not eliminate the broader hot and dry conditions expected to continue through the weekend.
Schools and roads have largely returned to normal
The wildfire temporarily disrupted schools across the region.
Jacksboro ISD delayed its school start on Aug. 25, while Perrin CISD canceled classes that day and later delayed its start time. Bryson ISD and Graford ISD also canceled classes during the height of the fire response.
Area school districts had returned to normal operations by the end of August.
U.S. Highway 180, which was temporarily closed between South FM 4 and FM 919 during the early stages of the fire, has since reopened.
A temporary flight restriction has also been established over the fire area.
Livestock and pets were also affected
The wildfire forced some ranchers to move livestock away from threatened areas.
Temporary space was made available at the Old Mineral Wells Sale Barn for livestock displaced by the fire. Animal shelters also prepared to receive pets evacuated from affected communities.
Those efforts have provided temporary options for residents who needed to move animals while dealing with evacuation or property damage.
Fire remains active despite increased containment
The Ross Fire has now been burning for more than two weeks, and its 90,400-acre footprint makes it one of the largest wildfires recorded in North Texas.
While crews have increased containment to 76%, the remaining fire perimeter continues to require monitoring, particularly as hot temperatures and dry vegetation persist.
Residents in and around the affected areas should continue following instructions from local emergency officials because fire conditions and evacuation guidance can change quickly.
