Ross Fire still burning 3 weeks later, with over 90,000 acres scorched and more than 150 structures destroyed, tell me about this news in (https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/ross-fire-still-burning-3-weeks-later-with-over-90000-acres-scorched-and-more-than-150-structures-destroyed/ar-AA2aQ5O6?ocid=BingNewsVerp)
15-09-2026
Here is a summary of the news regarding the Ross Fire:Overview & Scale
- Location: The wildfire ignited in Palo Pinto County, Texas, near U.S. Highway 180 and FM 919, and quickly pushed north into neighboring Jack County.
- Acreage & Record: The blaze blackened approximately 90,400 acres, making it the second-largest wildfire in North Texas recorded history, behind only the 2011 Possum Kingdom Complex Fire.
- Containment: Three weeks after it started, containment reached approximately 91%, as ground crews and aerial firefighting resources contained the fire’s perimeter.
- Origin: The fire broke out on the afternoon of August 24, initially estimated at only 25 to 80 acres. It was sparked by equipment use following a roadside tire blowout along Highway 180.
- Weather Conditions: Extended drought, prolonged triple-digit summer heat, critically dry surface vegetation, and gusty winds caused the fire to explode across tens of thousands of acres in just its first few days.
- Destroyed & Damaged Structures: At least 157 structures were destroyed (including 25 homes), with around 140 additional structures sustaining damage. Firefighters successfully defended more than 450 structures.
- Scouting Camp: The historic Worth Ranch (a Scouting America camp along the Brazos River) suffered catastrophic structural losses to several buildings. Fortunately, no campers or guests were present at the time, and the camp ranger was safely evacuated.
- Evacuations & Closures: Evacuations and road closures were enforced across parts of Jack and Palo Pinto counties during the fire’s initial peak. Several local school districts, including Bryson ISD and Graford ISD, had to cancel or adjust classes before resuming operations as containment improved.
- Casualties: Emergency officials reported no civilian or firefighter fatalities.