Upshur County Hot Spots Remain an Issue

UPSHUR COUNTY — Officials have been working to extinguish hot spots after an Upshur County grass fire destroyed several homes. Upshur County Fire Marshal Paul Steelman said Wednesday morning the fire burned between 320 and 350 acres. The blaze began about 4:00 Tuesday along Texas 154 near FM 1002. the fire quickly spread into the Rain Tree Lake subdivision, Steelman said. The fire has destroyed about 12 homes in the area. Officials ordered residents in the area to evacuate and are asking them to remain away from their homes while firefighters continue to work in the area. Nearby Harmony ISD canceled classes for the day.

The Texas Forest Service has drawn a fire line, but Steelman said he is not yet calling the fire contained. Steelman said wind was a major factor in the spread of the fire. Several volunteer departments have assisted in battling the blaze.