(Palo Pinto, Tx) – Sunday night’s brief rain helped bring a little relief to firefighters in Palo Pinto County who continue to battle a growing wildfire.

The Texas A&M Forest Service says suppression operations continue on what’s being called the Dempsey Fire.  As of 9pm Sunday night, an estimated 11,600 acres have burned so far and it’s only 18% contained.  The Dempsey Fire is located six miles west of Mineral Wells on the eastern border and around three miles south of Graford to the west.  Fire crews report the flames have jumped the Brazos River in several places.

The Palo Pinto County Sheriff’s Office posted on Facebook that “Due to the movement of the Dempsey Fire, evacuations are encouraged in the area North of 180, South of 254, East of 4 and West of 337.  Residents of Graford are encouraged to pre-plan for evacuations.  If you do not live in those areas please stay out of the area”.

Photo Credit:  Rep Glenn Rogers Facebook page