A fast-moving wildfire in North Texas has exploded to 80,000 acres, burning across two counties, damaging structures and forcing evacuations as firefighters struggle against dry conditions and shifting winds.
The Ross Fire began Monday afternoon in Palo Pinto County, about 60 miles west of Fort Worth, before racing north into neighboring Jack County. By Wednesday morning, the fire had grown to approximately 125 square miles and was just 12% contained, according to the latest local reports.
The speed of the fire’s expansion has been extraordinary. It grew to roughly 18,000 acres within its first 12 hours and reached 50,000 acres by Tuesday before expanding another 30,000 acres overnight. Hundreds of residents have been affected by evacuation orders or warnings, while roads have been closed and utility crews are working on damaged power infrastructure.
The fire has also damaged or destroyed multiple structures. Worth Ranch, a historic youth camp in Palo Pinto County, suffered extensive damage, although the organization said no scouts, campers or guests were at the property when the fire arrived and the camp ranger evacuated safely. Authorities were still assessing the full extent of property losses Wednesday morning.
More than 100 firefighters and aerial resources have been deployed against the blaze, while federal assistance has been approved to help Texas cover firefighting costs. With the Ross Fire still largely uncontained, emergency officials are urging people in threatened areas to follow evacuation instructions and avoid roads being used by firefighters and emergency crews.
