Wildfire in Montague County prompts evacuation orders
FILE – Texas train trestle destroyed by wildfire in Panhandle
Video shows a train trestle engulfed in flames as crews rush to battle nearly a dozen wildfires burning across the Texas Panhandle.
ST. JO, Texas - A wildfire in Montague County has prompted warnings to evacuate.
What we know:
The National Weather Service in Fort Worth issued a Fire Warning for Montague County just before noon Friday.
According to the message, the wildfire is located near Starkey Road, about 7 miles northwest of St. Jo and is moving quickly southwest.
Rural areas from Nobile Road eastward to Starkey Road and north of Highway 59 have been included in the warning.
The red dot on this map indicates the location of a wildfire in Montague County, Texas, on Aug. 21, 2026. (Texas A&M Forest Service / FOX Local)
What they're saying:
"Residents in these areas are asked to evacuate due to a rapidly spreading wildfire," the warning said. "Do not drive into smoke."
Montague ISD discusses wildfire
Local perspective:
In a statement posted on Facebook, officials at Montague Independent School District said they are aware of the fire, but it is not threatening the school at this time.
"The district is in communication with county officials, and we will share any updates with as we receive additional information," officials wrote.
Burn ban for Montague County
Dig deeper:
Montague County has been under a burn ban since Aug. 10. It is in effect for 90 days.
This is a developing story. Refresh for updates.
The Source: Information in this story came from the National Weather Service and the Montague County government website.