Single Publication

Storage Fire Daily Update

Saturday, July 08, 2023

Size: 975 acres

Containment: 50%

Start Date: June 28, 2023

Cause: Under Investigation, Human Caused

The Storage Fire, burning south of Possum Kingdom Lake and 9 miles west of Palo Pinto in Palo Pinto County, started on June 28, 2023. The fire is suspected to be human caused and is under investigation. The fire is burning in brush, grass and mesquite mix, and was initially contained on July 4th, 2023. The fire has spotted out of containment lines and began growing again on July 7th, 2023.

Evacuations: There are currently no evacuations in place for the Storage Fire.

Two buildings were damaged by this fire, but no injuries have been reported.

Yesterday: An ember from the Storage Fire blew across containment lines and started actively burning again outside of the lines. Local fire departments and the Texas A&M Forest Service quickly stopped forward progression with the use of aircraft, heavy equipment, and engines. Last night dozers constructed new containment lines around the additional burned acres and worked where they could to mop-up the burned area. As night fell the rough terrain limited everyone’s capabilities and crews made the decision to rest over night and start again in the morning.

Today: Crews are back out on the line today working to continue mopping up the eastern side of the Storage Fire. A Hand crew, 18-20 people who hike into fires with chainsaws and hand tools, has been ordered and should arrive today to assist with suppression efforts. The fire jumped out in an area of rough terrain that has been difficult for engines and heavy equipment to work in. With the addition of the hand crew resources will hike in through this difficult terrain and work to suppress all additional hot areas found within the burned area.

Weather and Fire Behavior: Winds are expected to be lighter today and more favorable for firefighters working on the line today. High temperatures and low relative humidity will remain through tonight when a weak cold front should pass through the area. No meaningful rain is expected but there is a chance for some increased winds once the cold front passes over the area.

Fire Information

Adam Turner

Public Information Officer, Texas A&M Forest Service

Email: adam.turner@tfs.tamu.edu

Phone: 940-328-9158

Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/txtxs-storage-fire

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