Wildfire Updates & How Can You Help?

I want to provide an update on the current status of the Ross Fire in Palo Pinto and Jack Counties. The fire is currently 12% contained and has burned approximately 80,000 acres.

I have been in constant contact with state and local officials to ensure that all available resources have been deployed and are engaged with containing the fire, assisting in evacuations and providing medical services.

Palo Pinto County residents should follow all emergency information and instructions provided by the Palo Pinto County Sheriff’s Office and Palo Pinto County Emergency Service District 1. Please use the links below to follow their Facebook pages and stay up to date on the latest information, including any new evacuation orders or emergency alerts:

• Palo Pinto County Sheriff’s Office
• Palo Pinto County Emergency Service District 1

Please visit the Texas Division of Emergency Management’s August Wildfires website for the latest information on statewide response and recovery efforts.

For the latest tracking information on the Ross Fire, including updates on the fire’s status, please visit the Ross Fire page.

photo credit: Texas A&M Forest Service on August 25, 2026

Emergency Shelters

For all residents who have been evacuated, I encourage you to call the State 2-1-1 emergency number for the most current information on available emergency shelters.

As of 12:30 p.m. on August 26, the following emergency shelters have been opened at the locations listed below.

Twin Lakes Community Activity Center
1114 State Highway 59
Jacksboro, TX 76458

Young County Arena
120 Barclay Blvd
Graham, TX 76450

Weather Update/Smoke Impact

Fire weather conditions remain present today across North Texas with temperatures remaining in the triple digits. High winds are still possible today which could hinder containment efforts of the Ross Fire. However, cloud cover and higher humidity this morning have helped limit fire growth. 

A cold front is bringing increased and shifting winds, which may change fire behavior and increase smoke impacts across surrounding counties. Reports indicate that smoke from the Ross Fire will move south and southeast this afternoon and evening, reaching as far as Waco. Please be aware of reduced visibility and poor air quality, particularly if you are traveling or spending time outdoors.

photo credit: Texas A&M Forest Service on August 25, 2026

Donations

The United Way of Palo Pinto County has established a Ross Fire Donation Relief page to support families facing immediate and long-term needs following the fire.

Water and financial donations are also being accepted at Clearfork Bank, located at 1031 E. Hubbard Street, Mineral Wells, TX 76067.

Community Support and Prayers

I want to thank the neighbors, volunteers and first responders who are stepping up to help one another during this difficult time. In moments like this, we are reminded of the strength of our communities and the importance of looking out for those around us. Thank you to everyone who is lending a helping hand, opening their doors and doing what they can to support their neighbors.

I also ask that you join me in praying for all of our first responders, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, law enforcement officers and everyone working around the clock to protect our communities. We are grateful for their courage, service and dedication. Please continue to keep them, their families and all those affected by these wildfires in your prayers.