What is the name and location of the wildfire?
As of August 26, 2026, the Ross Fire is burning across Palo Pinto and Jack counties in North Texas.
The fire began near U.S. Highway 180 and R D Bell Road, approximately 3 miles southwest of Palo Pinto, and has spread through areas near Graford, Worth Ranch, and the Brazos River (1).
Which cities or areas are affected by the Ross Fire?
The cities and areas affected by the Ross Fire include:
- Barton Chapel
- Berry Dairy area
- Bryson
- Graford
- Jack County
-
Palo Pinto
- Perrin
- Rock Creek
- Worth Ranch
What is the current containment status of the Ross Fire?
As of August 26, 2026, the Ross Fire has burned 80,000 acres and is 12% contained.
Strong northwest winds have pushed the fire south and compromised part of the containment line. Firefighters, heavy equipment, and aircraft are working to strengthen containment lines and protect nearby communities and structures.
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
Evacuation instructions and precautionary advisories remain in effect across parts of Jack and Palo Pinto counties.
Residents near Barton Chapel, County Road 2210, FM 4 east of Perrin, Rock Creek, and Halsell Ranch Road have been advised to evacuate or remain prepared to leave.
Residents near Berry Dairy, Smith Road, Cottonwood Cemetery Road, Birdwell Road, and Cook Road have also been told to prepare for evacuation. Bryson residents have been instructed to shelter in place, while Graford remains on alert.
The following shelters are available:
- Twin Lakes Recreation Center at 1114 TX-59 in Jacksboro
- Sheriff's Posse Rodeo Grounds at 2251 Mineral Wells Highway in Weatherford for large animals
Residents should follow updates and instructions from local emergency authorities, as conditions may change quickly.
Protect yourself from wildfire smoke
See how a wildfire smoke air purifier can help clean your air.
How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?
Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.
- Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
- Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
- Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
- Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
- Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
As of August 26, 2026, this fire is 12% contained.
