This is a developing story. Updated Aug. 26, 9:20 a.m.
A wildfire broke out in Palo Pinto County Monday, Aug. 24, spreading to 80,000 acres with 12 percent containment, according to WFAA and the Texas A&M Forest Service.
Known as the “Ross Fire,” the flames developed along Highway 180 and Ross Watson Road about 60 miles west of Fort Worth.
First Baptist Church in Possum Kingdom Lake, a few miles north of where the fire started, confirmed their building is safe. Several members of the church have evacuated from their properties, and others are without food and water.
Highway 180 and 254 were closed Tuesday as the fire continued to spread, destroying homes, businesses, and private property.
Texans on Mission issued a statement on Facebook asking for prayer for first responders and those affected as they monitor the disaster.
“The Ross fire is currently burning in North Texas, leading to mandatory and voluntary evacuations. TXM disaster relief teams are on standby to serve. The fire has damaged, and is threatening homes, businesses, and schools. High winds and high heat are allowing multiple wildfires to continue burning across the region,” the Facebook post read.
In Jack County, emergency management issued a mandatory evacuation Tuesday morning for the southern section of the county.
A shelter has opened up at Twin Lakes Activity Center in Jacksboro near Highway 59.
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Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said FEMA approved a Fire Management Assistant Grant and will provide all necessary resources to protect Texans from the Ross Fire in Palo Pinto and Jack counties, WFAA reported.
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