CANYON, Texas - Mandatory evacuations are underway in Canyon, Texas, as a rapidly spreading grass fire scorches parts of the region.
STRONG WINDS, DRY AIR EXPAND FIRE THREAT FROM THE PLAINS INTO THE ROCKIES AS SOUTHEAST RISK EASES
The Hunggate Fire began Thursday afternoon when a storm cell moved across Randall County, producing lightning that sparked a series of grass fires throughout the area.
As of Thursday evening, the fire had burned more than 14,000 acres and is 10% contained.
WHAT IS AN ASH DEVIL? RARE PHENOMENON FORMS DURING WILDFIRE IN CALIFORNIA
Crews from Texas A&M Forest Service and multiple local fire departments are actively working to contain the fire as numerous structures remain threatened in the impacted areas.
Mandatory evacuations have been issued for areas near Chaparral Villas in the Canyon area and near 13th Avenue in Randall County.
EMERGING THREAT: OFFICIALS NOTE RECORD NUMBER OF DRONES IN RESTRICTED AIRSPACE DURING FIRES
Officials are urging residents to avoid affected areas whenever possible and to use caution when traveling near emergency response operations.
With current dry conditions and an elevated fire risk, the public is encouraged to avoid activities that could spark additional fires, including parking on dry grass, outdoor burning or towing chains that may create sparks.
The Hunggate Fire is one of three fires that started in Texas on Thursday.
Stay with FOX Weather for the latest updates.
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