The fast-moving Ross Fire has grown into one of the largest wildfires in North Texas history, prompting some evacuations and school closures west of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

The Ross Fire started as a small grass fire on Monday afternoon before it exploded in size in a matter of hours as it ripped through wide swaths of ranchland west of Fort Worth, according to the Associated Press.

“It just took off way too fast,” said Katie Rochelle, whose fifth-generation family canoe rental business lost its office and repair shop outside Graford. “The wind was going in a tornado motion.”

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Hot, dry and windy conditions spur spread

Authorities have not identified what caused the fire, according to the Dallas Morning News, but hot, dry and windy conditions have spurred its growth to over 130 square miles with only about 12% containment as of Thursday.

Firefighters aided by water-dropping aircraft protected structures on ranchland near the tiny town of Palo Pinto.

“We’ve thrown everything at this, and we’re still having minimal effect,” Palo Pinto Fire Chief Danny Watkins said. 

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There could be isolated showers near the fire Thursday, but unless the rain falls directly over the fire, shifting winds will be a danger for firefighters. There's also the chance of lightning initiating more fires.

The Ross Fire could continue to burn "for days and days," FOX 4 reported.

It wasn't immediately known how many structures have burned. Multiple buildings were destroyed at Worth Ranch, a youth camp on the southern edge of the fire, when flames swept through Tuesday. No campers or guests were on the property, and all personnel were safely evacuated, according to Scouting America's Longhorn Council, which owns the camp.

The Ross Fire now ranks as the second largest wildfire in North Texas history.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.