North Texas is facing another day of dangerous heat and heightened wildfire risk, with temperatures expected to approach 100F (38C) as dry air and gusty winds continue to strain firefighting efforts across the region.
The most serious incident is the Hydra Fire in Bosque County, where flames have burned about 1,000 acres and were reported to be 10% contained. Smoke from the blaze is affecting air quality downwind, while firefighters remain on alert for rapid spread in the hot, dry conditions.
A mandatory evacuation order for the town of Meridian was issued on Tuesday as the fire approached. The order was later lifted, although officials warned residents that conditions could change and that further evacuations might be needed at short notice.
Evacuees were directed to a temporary shelter at Clifton Civic Centre, where the Red Cross provided cots and supplies. Texas A&M Forest Service crews, heavy equipment and aircraft have been assisting local departments with the response.
North Texas wildfire risk remains high
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory, with heat index values forecast to reach as high as 106F (41C) in parts of the area. Afternoon winds from the south are expected to strengthen, increasing the risk that any new fire could spread quickly.
Other fires remain active across the region. The Ross Fire is listed as 93% contained, while the Red Bank Fire is 70% contained and the Lobo Fire in Eastland County is half contained.
Forecasters expect little immediate relief. A broad area of high pressure is likely to keep North Texas hot and largely rain-free through the weekend, with highs close to 100F each day.
A weather front could bring more cloud cover and a small chance of rain from Sunday night into Monday, but forecasters do not expect a substantial break in the heat or enough rainfall to ease drought and fire conditions significantly.
Although astronomical autumn begins on Tuesday, seasonal temperatures are not yet expected to arrive across the region.
