Texas wildfires jump streams and rivers as powerful winds drive rapid spread

A rapidly advancing wildfire in north-central Texas destroyed a family home and a commercial property, burned buildings at a youth camp and forced evacuations in a sparsely populated ranching area west of Fort Worth, as local ranchers opened barns for animals needing evacuation.The Ross Fire began Monday afternoon and spread across more than 200 square kilometers (78 square miles) in less than 24 hours, passing through sparsely populated areas in two counties. Residents said the fire crossed streams and rivers as strong winds pushed it across ranch land.Firefighters had only about 8% of the Ross Fire contained as of Tuesday night after high temperatures, dry conditions and gusty winds helped fuel its rapid spread, according to the Associated Press news agency.

Farmers open barns for livestock

Ranchers and a livestock commission made barns available to temporarily house animals that needed evacuation. Emergency centers were opened for residents, while some schools canceled classes.The fire also threatened ranch properties around Palo Pinto, where aircraft joined ground crews in efforts to protect structures.“We’ve put everything into this and we’re still having minimal effect,” said Fire Chief Danny Watkins.

Family business and century-old house destroyed

Just outside Graford, the fire affected a business that had been in Katie Rochelle’s family for generations.The family’s canoe rental business lost its office and repair shop, while a family home built about a century ago was also destroyed. Some company buses and trailers were also destroyed.Rochelle’s husband, a local firefighter, helped protect their home overnight while the fire remained active nearby.“I don’t know how our house survived,” Rochelle said. “Now we are waiting and praying.”

Destroyed buildings in Worth Ranch

The fire also reached Worth Ranch, a youth camp on the southern edge of the affected area, destroying several buildings.The Longhorn Council of Scouting America said there were no campers or guests on the property when the flames hit. All personnel were able to leave safely.Palo Pinto County authorities had confirmed at least five structures destroyed, although officials were still assessing the extent of the damage.

Federal aid mobilized as other Texas fires burn

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said Federal Emergency Management Agency resources would support firefighting efforts. He also urged residents to avoid activities that could spark additional fires during the period of hot, dry and windy weather.The Ross Fire was not the only fire that required attention in Texas. Crews were also responding to four smaller wildfires in surrounding Texas counties.

More than 50,000 wildfires recorded in the US

Data from the National Interagency Fire Center shows that more than 50,000 wildfires have been recorded nationwide this year, the highest number for the same time of year over the past decade. Twelve new large fires were recorded on Sunday alone.In Southern California, areas north of Los Angeles were under a red flag alert until Friday, and forecasters warned that new fires could spread quickly.In Nevada, authorities sharply reduced evacuation orders around Reno after containment of the Hawk Fire reached 85% Tuesday night. The fire had burned about 60 square kilometers (23 square miles) and destroyed at least 47 homes.Seven people (three first responders and four civilians) were injured. Firefighters said the Hawk Fire was caused by human activity, although investigators had not determined whether it was set deliberately or accidentally.Back in Texas, emergency officials expected the Ross Fire to grow even larger as temperatures rose.