Ruftler Fire (TX)
Satellite image: NASA MODIS (infrared — active fire in orange/red, from yesterday).
Heat detections: NASA FIRMS (last 48h).
Quick facts
- Location
- Motley County
- Complexity
- Type 5 Incident
- Jurisdiction
- SFS · Private land
Burning across private land in Motley County, Texas, the active Ruftler Fire has grown to encompass 1,000 acres since igniting on August 22, 2026. Currently managed as a Type 5 Incident with zero containment, the wildfire continues to generate activity that is being monitored from orbit.
In the last 48 hours, satellite observation has detected a single heat signature near the incident, highlighting the ongoing spread of the front. This blaze develops against the backdrop of the region's typical fire season, which spans from June to October.
On a national scale, this fire occurs during a year where 2,982,133 hectares have burned so far in 2026, tracking 46% below the two-decade average.
In context
This wildfire has been burning in Texas for 1 day. So far it has affected roughly 1,000 acres — about 4.0 km². Crews have contained 25% of the perimeter, but most of the fire line is still open.
In the Northern Hemisphere, wildfire activity usually peaks during the warm, dry months — roughly May through October.
The bigger picture in United States
Across United States, roughly 2,982,133 hectares have burned so far in 2026 — 46% below the two-decade average. Data from Copernicus GWIS.
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Community reports
Reports from people near the fire · unverified
Not official emergency information. In an emergency, contact fire services/authorities.
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