A fast-moving wildfire in north-central Texas has destroyed a family home and business property, burned buildings at a youth camp and forced evacuations across sparsely populated ranch country west of Fort Worth, while local ranchers opened barns for animals needing evacuation.The Ross Fire began Monday afternoon and spread across more than 78 square miles (200 sq km) in less than 24 hours, moving through lightly populated areas in two counties. Residents said the blaze crossed creeks and rivers as powerful winds pushed it through ranchland.Firefighters had contained only about 8% of the Ross Fire as of Tuesday evening after high temperatures, dry conditions and gusty winds helped drive its rapid spread, according to the news agency Associated Press.
Ranchers open barns for livestock
Ranchers and a livestock commission made barns available to temporarily hold animals needing evacuation. Emergency centres were opened for residents, while some schools cancelled classes.The blaze also threatened ranch properties around Palo Pinto, where aircraft joined crews on the ground in efforts to protect structures.“We’ve thrown everything at this, and we’re still having minimal effect,” Fire Chief Danny Watkins said.
Family business, century-old home destroyed
Outside Graford, the fire hit a business that had been in Katie Rochelle’s family for generations.The family’s canoe rental operation lost its office and repair shop, while a family home built about a century ago was also destroyed. Some of the company’s buses and trailers were also destroyed.Rochelle’s husband, a local firefighter, helped protect their home overnight as the fire remained active nearby.“I don’t know how our house survived,” Rochelle said. “Now we’re waiting and praying.”
Buildings destroyed at Worth Ranch
The fire also reached Worth Ranch, a youth camp on the southern edge of the affected area, destroying several buildings.Scouting America’s Longhorn Council said there were no campers or guests at the property when the flames arrived. All personnel were able to leave safely.Officials in Palo Pinto County had confirmed at least five destroyed structures, although authorities were still assessing the extent of the damage.
Federal help mobilised as other Texas fires burn
Texas Governor Greg Abbott said resources from the Federal Emergency Management Agency would support firefighting efforts. He also urged residents to avoid activities that could start additional fires during the spell of hot, dry and windy weather.The Ross Fire was not the only blaze demanding attention in Texas. Crews were also responding to four smaller wildfires in surrounding Texas counties.
More than 50,000 wildfires recorded across US
National Interagency Fire Center data show that more than 50,000 wildfires have been recorded nationwide this year, the highest number for the same point in the year over the past decade. Twelve new large fires were reported on Sunday alone.In Southern California, areas north of Los Angeles were under a red flag warning through Friday, with forecasters warning that new fires could spread rapidly.In Nevada, authorities sharply reduced evacuation orders around Reno after containment of the Hawk Fire reached 85% by Tuesday evening. The blaze had burned about 23 square miles (60 sq km) and destroyed at least 47 homes.Seven people — three first responders and four civilians — were injured. Fire officials said the Hawk Fire was caused by human activity, though investigators had not determined whether it was deliberately set or accidental.Back in Texas, emergency officials expected the Ross Fire to grow further as temperatures rose.