Hydra

Meridian city evacuation lifted while highway corridor orders remain active

The Hydra Fire is burning through brush, grass, and dense juniper across steep canyons between Clifton and Meridian in Bosque County. After breaching containment lines and advancing rapidly toward Meridian on September 15, the fire prompted widespread evacuations before the citywide order was lifted. Active fire behavior continues to threaten rural properties and homes along key highway corridors.

Evacuations and Closures

• Evacuation orders remain in effect for 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 (September 15).
• Initial evacuation orders remain in place for the 7000 and 8000 blocks of State Highway 6 (September 14).
• The general mandatory evacuation order for the city of Meridian was rescinded late Tuesday, though officials caution conditions remain volatile (September 15).
• Evacuation shelters are open at the Clifton Civic Center, First Baptist Church Clifton, and First United Methodist Church in Clifton (September 15).
• Livestock sheltering is available at the Clifton Fairgrounds and the Clifton ISD Livestock Barn (September 15).
• Meridian Independent School District canceled all classes for Wednesday, September 16 (September 16).
• Meridian city offices are closed on Wednesday, September 16 (September 15).
• Dedicated phone lines at 254-709-3761 and 936-333-3961 are available for residents needing evacuation transportation assistance (September 15).

Impact

Smoke is settling into low-lying areas across the Bosque River valley during nighttime and early morning hours. No structural losses or injuries have been officially reported.

Conditions and Outlook

Warm and dry conditions will continue over the coming days, with persistent south to southeasterly winds bringing gusty afternoon conditions and virtually no chance of rain. Firefighters anticipate continued terrain- and fuel-driven runs through dense juniper within steep canyon areas. Ground crews and heavy equipment operating in unified command are prioritizing line construction and structure protection with ongoing aviation support.

Cause and Context

The cause of the fire is undetermined and under investigation. Texas A&M Forest Service is managing the incident in unified command with local emergency response agencies.

Official updates current through September 16, 2026.