Dry River

Crews reinforce containment lines southwest of Sonora as afternoon activity increases

The Dry River Fire is burning southwest of Sonora in Sutton County, spreading through grass and juniper after igniting near County Road 403. Over the past 72 hours, rapid forward spread prompted an evacuation readiness alert along County Road 104, though crews successfully held the line near Caverns Road following a wind shift. Responders continue monitoring renewed afternoon flare-ups for potential movement toward Interstate 10 and local properties.

Evacuations and Closures

• A Fire Warning and evacuation readiness alert remain in place for residents along Sutton County Road 104 (Bloodworth Road) and areas southwest of Sonora, issued September 15, 2026.
• A travel advisory remains in effect for Interstate 10 between Sonora and Ozona due to dense smoke and emergency response traffic, issued September 15, 2026.

Impact

No injuries or structure losses have been reported as of September 16, 2026. Utility and energy companies have initiated assessments of electrical, pipeline, and related infrastructure across the burn area. Dense smoke has reduced highway visibility along Interstate 10 and drifted northward across the western Concho Valley toward Sterling City.

Conditions and Outlook

Warm, dry conditions will persist across the area with prevailing south-southeasterly winds and little to no chance of rain over the coming days. Firefighters and heavy equipment operators plan to strengthen perimeter lines, conduct mop-up, and provide point protection for structures if fire activity increases in tall grass and juniper fuels.

Cause and Context

The wildfire was determined to be human-caused by equipment and vehicle use on September 15, 2026. Texas A&M Forest Service is operating in unified command with local emergency agencies, with mutual aid assistance from Crockett County.

Official updates current through September 16, 2026.