"The fire’s rapid growth to over 16,000 acres in just four days and the substantial resources committed—up to 22 personnel and $155,000 in estimated costs—highlight its significant impact on the local environment and emergency response efforts."
The Star Lake wildfire, located 16 miles southeast of Stowell in Jefferson County, Texas, was discovered on September 11, 2026, and is caused by natural factors under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. The fire rapidly expanded from 200 acres on September 12 to 16,412 acres by September 15, with containment holding at 50% until September 15 and then rising to 70% on September 15, 80% on September 18, 98% on September 19, and 100% on September 21. Fire behavior evolved from moderate backing and smoldering to active creeping, then to minimal smoldering and creeping as containment improved. Personnel peaked at 22 on September 15 and decreased to 9 by September 21, while estimated costs climbed from $20,000 to $155,000.
Official source description: 16 Miles SE from Stowell, TX
Minimal; Smoldering; Creeping
Good air quality. Outdoor activity is generally safe near this incident.
Nearest reporting station: Beaumont-Port Arthur. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
With the fire now fully contained and behavior minimal, general wildfire safety guidance applies; remain aware of potential smoldering hotspots and follow any local advisories.
IRWIN ID: {69F4BEB6-3800-4F24-AE46-F2CAC8E746DB}
Discovered: Sep 11, 2026
Cause: Natural
Managing Agency: USFWS
Est. Cost to Date: $155,000
Coordinates: 29.6642, -94.1586
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in TX.
The Star Lake Fire has burned 16,412 acres as of September 21, 2026.
Yes, the Star Lake Fire is fully contained (100%).
The official cause has been listed as: Natural.
The Star Lake Fire is burning in Jefferson, TX.
No, the Star Lake Fire is no longer listed as active by NIFC.
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