"The rapid growth to over 750 acres in a single day and the swift containment within 48 hours highlight the effectiveness of the response, but the extreme fire behavior and smoldering conditions underscore the potential for re-ignition and the need for continued vigilance."
The Elm Creek wildfire in Limestone County, Texas, was first discovered on September 14, 2026, at 21:50:55 and is currently active under the jurisdiction of the SFS. The fire rapidly expanded from 150 acres to 754 acres within the first 24 hours, reaching a peak of 754 acres before shrinking to 737 acres by September 15, 13:40:02. Containment progressed steadily, rising from 0% at discovery to 100% by September 15, 18:00:04, and remains fully contained as of the latest update. The cause is attributed to equipment and vehicle use, and the fire behavior is currently described as extreme and smoldering with 21 personnel on the scene.
Official source description: 2 Miles NE from Mart, TX
Extreme; Smoldering
Moderate air quality. Unusually sensitive individuals should consider reducing prolonged outdoor exertion.
Nearest reporting station: Waco-Killeen. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
With the fire fully contained and behavior described as extreme and smoldering, general wildfire safety guidance applies: remain aware of local advisories, avoid the area until cleared, and monitor for any signs of re-ignition.
IRWIN ID: {9172747A-AC9D-4DCE-8708-DCD15285454C}
Discovered: Sep 14, 2026
Cause: Equipment and vehicle use
Managing Agency: SFS
Coordinates: 31.5625, -96.7734
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in TX.
The Elm Creek Fire has burned 737 acres as of September 16, 2026.
Yes, the Elm Creek Fire is fully contained (100%).
The official cause has been listed as: Equipment and vehicle use.
The Elm Creek Fire is burning in Limestone, TX.
Yes, as of the latest official update, the Elm Creek Fire remains active.
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