Hydra Fire in Central Texas now 933 acres, 66% contained as evacuation order lifted

The Hydra Fire has burned 933 acres and is 66% contained after its rapid growth prompted an evacuation not long after it began in Central Texas last week.

Earlier Tuesday, Sept. 14, a mandatory evacuation was ordered in the Central Texas community, about 65 miles south-southwest of Fort Worth. The Hydra Fire has grown to 933 acres as of Monday, Sept. 21.

Evacuation lifted as Hydra Fire continues to burn

"Residents may return home; however, conditions remain subject to change," the Bosque County Sheriff's Office said late Tuesday in a statement issued with the Bosque County Office of Emergency Management and the City of Meridian.

"It may become necessary to evacuate the city again tomorrow [Wednesday] on short notice. Anyone returning home is strongly encouraged to remain prepared and make arrangements now to evacuate quickly should conditions worsen or another evacuation order be issued."

Residents along State Highway 6 from County Road 3105 to State Highway 22, and along State Highway 22 from State Highway 6 to Farm-to-Market Road 2136, were encouraged to remain evacuated.

Residents should continue to monitor official sources for updates, the agencies said.

By 8 p.m. Tuesday, the evacuation shelter had moved to the Clifton Civic Center, where the Red Cross was providing cots and supplies, the city said in a social media post. Clifton is about 12 miles south of Meridian.

The Bosque County city of about 1,600 people canceled its Tuesday evening council meeting amid the fire response.

"For the safety of our city employees, City Offices will be CLOSED tomorrow," the city said on Facebook shortly before 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

Anyone without transportation was told to call 254-709-3761 or 936-333-3961 for assistance.

CBS News Texas will provide updates as more information becomes available.