Overview
- The Ross Fire, which ignited Aug. 24 along U.S. Highway 180, has grown to roughly 90,000–90,400 acres and was reported about 38% contained in the latest incident updates.
- Texas A&M Forest Service investigators classified the blaze as human-caused and traced the roadside origin to vehicle or equipment use associated with a tire blowout while noting they could not identify the exact ignition spark.
- Initial structure assessments show between 157 and 167 buildings destroyed, dozens more damaged, and about 453 structures saved, with no major injuries or deaths reported so far.
- Crews have used direct line construction, tactical burning and an unusual ground application of fire retardant along roads to create holding lines, and out-of-state mutual-aid teams have joined local and state forces.
- Hot, dry weather and gusty winds continue to threaten flare-ups so crews remain focused on mop-up, holding-line reinforcement and full damage assessments as FEMA Fire Management Assistance helps cover suppression costs.