Updated on: August 25, 2026 / CBS Texas
A wildfire near Ross in Palo Pinto County has rapidly grown to at least 50,000 acres and was only 8% contained by Tuesday, according to North Texas officials. The blaze has led to evacuations in nearby Jack County, affecting schools in the region.
Extent and Location of the Ross Fire
The wildfire has engulfed at least 50,000 acres across Palo Pinto and Jack counties. It is burning close to U.S. 180 and FM 919. The Texas A&M Forest Service reported the fire was 8% contained as of Tuesday afternoon.
Residents along County Road 2210 toward Highway 281 in Jack County have been told to evacuate. Despite firefighting efforts, the blaze has caused significant structural damage. Initially starting at 25 acres near Ross just before 1:30 p.m. on Monday, the fire has spread rapidly, endangering more structures.
The Longhorn Council of Scouting America reported catastrophic damage to buildings at Worth Ranch. Fortunately, no scouts, campers, or guests were present, and the camp ranger, Pat Adams, was evacuated safely.
Evacuation Orders
Evacuation orders are in place for residents in Jack County along County Road 2210 toward Highway 281. An evacuation center has been established at Twin Lake Recreation Center on Highway 59 in Jacksboro. The fires and subsequent evacuations have prompted changes in local schools, delaying the start of school for Jacksboro ISD by two hours and canceling classes for Perrin CISD.
Firefighting Efforts
The Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) Strike Team and the Texas A&M Forest Service are supporting firefighting efforts with the use of dozers and aircraft. U.S. Highway 180 is currently closed to all traffic between South FM 4 and FM 919 due to the wildfire. A Temporary Flight Restriction has also been imposed over the area.
Assistance for Livestock
For those moving livestock, the Graham Livestock Commission is offering space at the Old Mineral Wells Sale Barn, located at 2805 North Oak Ave, as a temporary placement for animals displaced by the fire.
Causes of Elevated Wildfire Risk
Dry vegetation, a lack of measurable rainfall, and gusty winds contribute to high wildfire risk in North Texas. The National Weather Service monitors the situation, highlighting the Ross Fire as one of the largest incidents.
With more than a month without measurable rainfall, surface vegetation has become critically dry. This makes them easier to ignite, facilitating the rapid spread of fires. Southwest winds, gusting up to 20 mph on Tuesday, are expected to raise the risk of grass fires west of I-35. Residents are urged to refrain from outdoor activities that could start fires.
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