Dallas — The Ross wildfire that erupted on Aug. 24 and spread across rugged terrain in Palo Pinto and Jack counties is now fully contained. According to the InciWeb wildfire map, officials confirmed 100% containment on Wednesday at roughly 6:20 p.m., with the fire having burned about 90,000 acres.
Scale of the blaze and response
The blaze grew rapidly, crossing into neighboring Jack County the day after it started and reaching 80,000 acres by Aug. 26. Statewide, more than 500 fire responders were dispatched from across Texas to combat the fire, working in difficult, densely vegetated terrain that slowed suppression efforts.
Cause and investigation
Forest Service investigators and local law‑enforcement officials reported on Sept. 2 that the Ross fire was “human‑caused,” likely stemming from equipment or vehicle use associated with a roadside engine start. The investigation remains ongoing.
Historical context
On Sept. 4, Texas A&M Forest Service officials announced that the Ross fire had become the largest summer wildfire recorded in Texas since the state began keeping wildfire records in 2005. It ranks as the 15th‑largest Texas wildfire overall since that year.
Other fires in the region
As the Ross fire was brought under control, two additional wildfires ignited in nearby counties. The Hydra fire in Bosque County burned over 1,000 acres and was 35% contained as of Thursday. The city of Meridian, about 90 miles southwest of Dallas, briefly issued an evacuation order when the fire breached its containment lines; the order has since been lifted, though residents south of State Highway 22 and west of Highway 6 were urged to stay ready to evacuate if needed.
In Parker County, the 200‑acre Red Bank fire was reported 80% contained on Thursday. None of the three fires has resulted in any fatalities.
Impact on local communities
Local volunteer fire departments, including the De Leon Volunteer Fire Department, have been on the front lines, often setting up temporary rest areas at gas stations and other safe locations while battling the flames. Residents in the affected counties have expressed gratitude for the swift mobilization of state resources and the dedication of firefighters who worked around the clock.
Looking ahead
The Texas A&M Forest Service will continue monitoring the burn area for hot spots and will work with local officials on recovery efforts, including assessing damage to private property, livestock, and natural resources. While the immediate threat has been neutralized, officials remind residents to remain vigilant during the ongoing fire‑season and to follow any future evacuation notices.
The Dallas Morning News reached out to the forest service for additional details on post‑containment plans but had not received a response at the time of publication.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
