UPDATE: The wildfires east of Mason have been upgraded to 40% contained, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service at 5:45 p.m.
MASON, TX — The wildfires outside of Mason have now burned 4,000 acres, and their containment has been downgraded from 25% to 0%, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service at 12:20 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23.
The fires, which are believed to have been started by lightning Thursday night, are being collectively referred to as the "North Art Complex" fire.
The National Guard joined in the effort Friday afternoon by deploying helicopters, including one loaded with water to drop on the fires.
There has still been no official word on any damage to structures.
![Volunteer firefighters prepare to head back out to help battle the "North Art Complex" fire outside Mason on Friday, Aug. 23.](/sites/default/files/2024-08/dscf8028.jpeg "Volunteer firefighters prepare to head back out to help battle the "North Art Complex" fire outside Mason on Friday, Aug. 23.")
Volunteer firefighters prepare to head back out to help battle the "North Art Complex" fire outside Mason on Friday, Aug. 23.
Numerous fire departments have been battling the wildfires roughly 10 miles east of Mason.
A Mason County judge issued a burn ban Wednesday for the area because of the potential threat of wildfires.
Containment of the fire was upgraded from 10% to 25% at 10:10 a.m. Friday, but it dropped to 0% within about two hours in the hot, breezy conditions.
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