Story thread · 5 reports / 4 sources

Hydra Fire prompts mandatory evacuation of Meridian in Bosque County

nbcdfw.com · 6h · first reportShare

Firefighters continued battling the Hydra Fire in Bosque County near Meridian on Tuesday as officials ordered a mandatory evacuation of the city. The fire had burned an estimated 1,000 acres and was 10% contained, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service. Meridian initially directed evacuees to Meridian High School, but officials later moved the shelter to the Clifton Civic Center. The Red Cross is providing cots and supplies at the civic center. The city announced around 5 p.m. Tuesday that Mayor Nieuwenhuis had directed a mandatory evacuation for all residents. Officials said residents should not return until the evacuation order is officially lifted. The Hydra Fire started Monday afternoon. The Texas A&M Forest Service was requested to assist at 4:10 p.m., bringing additional firefighters and heavy equipment. Heavy equipment and aviation resources are also assisting with suppression efforts.