HAMILTON COUNTY, Texas — A more than 2,600-acres fire has erupted in Hamilton County, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service.
Fire crews are working to get the Rio Escondido Fire under control, but high, gusty winds from the south are hindering progress, according to the Hamilton County, Texas Sheriff's Office.
The Clifton Texas Volunteer Fire Department said Tuesday morning that "major progress was made overnight."
The fire was at 30% containment on Tuesday, but increased to 75% on Wednesday, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service.
The Sheriff's Office and Fire Department are recommending that residents north to County Road 411 and east of 281 to evacuate immediately.
TXDOT has barricades in the following intersections:
- U.S. Hwy. 281 @ County Road 415
- U.S. Hwy. 281 @ County Road 417
- U.S. Hwy. 281 @ County Road 419
- U.S. Hwy. 281 @ County Road 421
Shelter is available at Evant City, the Bueno Vista Safari Clubhouse and the Evant ISD & Masonic Lodge. Shelter for animals will be available in the Evant Rodeo Arena.
Power outages in Rio Escondido (Sections 1-4, 6) will last at least until Tuesday afternoon due to damage to distribution conductor, cross arms and insulators, according to the Hamilton County Electric Cooperative Association.
This is a developing story. We will continue updating this article with the latest information.
