NewsWPLG Local 10August 25, 2026Miami-Dade
Texas officials order evacuations and request federal aid as Ross Fire burns 78 square miles
The Ross Fire in north central Texas has forced evacuations and school closures after burning over 78 square miles of ranchland since Monday. Governor Greg Abbott has secured federal assistance from FEMA to support firefighting efforts as containment remains at 8%.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10Why It Matters
Residents in Palo Pinto and surrounding counties face immediate threats to property and safety, with ongoing evacuations and school closures impacting local services and daily life.
Key Facts
- The Ross Fire has burned more than 78 square miles (200 square kilometers) in north central Texas.
- Containment of the Ross Fire was at 8% as of Tuesday evening.
- Governor Greg Abbott announced FEMA will provide resources to assist with the fire.
- Multiple buildings were destroyed at Worth Ranch, though no campers were present.
- At least five structures have been confirmed destroyed in Palo Pinto County.
- The fire began early Monday afternoon and is fueled by high temperatures and gusty winds.
- Schools in the area have canceled classes and evacuation centers have been opened.
- Nationwide, there have been more than 50,000 wildfires reported so far this year.
- A separate fire in Reno, Nevada, has destroyed at least 47 homes and forced 5,000 evacuations.
Who's Mentioned
organizationNational Interagency Fire Center“Source of national wildfire statistics”organizationFEMA“Federal agency providing firefighting resources”locationPalo Pinto County“Primary location of the Ross Fire”personGreg Abbott“Governor of Texas who requested federal aid”personDanny Watkins“Fire Chief of Palo Pinto County”locationWorth Ranch“Youth camp where structures were destroyed”