Rock House fire threatens McDonald Observatory

The Rock House fire that burned through Fort Davis, Texas a week ago is still spreading, exhibiting extreme fire behavior. It has burned 199,001 acres and is 75% contained.

On Monday, firefighters conducted burnouts to prevent the fire from reaching the McDonald Observatory.

Burnout and fire activity near McDonald Observatory, Hobby-Eberly Telescope
The Rock House wildfire and a burnout operation near the Hobby-Eberly Telescope at the McDonald Observatory in west Texas on Monday, April 18, 2011. Credit: Frank Cianciolo/McDonald Observatory

Inciweb has some current maps of the Rock House fire here.

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Author: Bill Gabbert

After working full time in wildland fire for 33 years, he continues to learn, and strives to be a Student of Fire.