Officials in Texas are urging residents to flee their homes after a massive wildfire broke out north of Houston. 

According to the Walker County Office of Emergency Management, a major fire erupted Friday afternoon in a wooded area along Lost Indian Camp Road.

The latest update from officials said that the fire had stretched to encompass 1,200 acres and had been contained by ten percent. Just hours previously, the fire was estimated to be spread out across 100 acres, before growing to 500 acres, and then 1000 acres – prompting officials to ask those living nearby to flee.

The latest update from the Texas Forest Service said: ‘The fire in Walker County is an estimated 1,200 acres and 10% contained. 

‘Dozers continue to build containment line. Firefighters will patrol the area tonight. Aviation and additional crews will be on scene tomorrow to assist with response.’

An earlier update had said that the behavior of the fire was ‘high to extreme’.

In a notice shared on social media the Walker County Office of Emergency Management said: ‘Major fire on Lost Indian Camp Road off FM247. 

‘FM247 is closed both lanes from Pinedale to FM2989. Evacuation recommended everything within 3 miles of Lost Indian Camp Road. Air attack is dropping water.

ABC reported that authorities have now closed a six and a half mile stretch of the FM

It remains unclear at this time as to what caused the fire or if anyone has been injured. 

According to a statement issued by Governor Greg Abbott, the state is currently experiencing triple-digit temperatures, with more than 98 percent of the state experiencing drought. 

Neighbors also told Fox26 that homes have been burned and livestock evacuated from the area. 

Images and video shared on social media show thick dark plumes of smoke leeching up into the air as the fire burns. 

Footage taken from the air shows just how large the wildfire has managed to stretch to in such a short time. 

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