Waller County is now in recovery mode as officials say that the devastating Riley Road Fire is now 100-percent contained. The fire, which started on Sept. 5, burned more than 10,500 acres in Waller County and destroyed at least 76 structures, including 60 homes, in a three county area.

The Texas Forest Service (TFS) stated that the fire has relatively few hot spots left within the perimeter, which allowed officials in Waller County to let all evacuated residents back into their homes and property.

Pictured is the forest around Remington Forest subdivision was gutted along FM 1488, due to the massive tri-county wildfire that burned for 10 days.

“Fire activity on the Riley Road fire was light again today,”  the TFS stated on its website. “Fire crews have mopped up the entire 45-mile perimeter and there are very few hot spots remaining.

The website also stated that the weather finally started cooperating with firefighters. They had been battling the inferno for over a week.

“A moist sea breeze came on shore again last night increasing the overnight relative humidity to 96-percent,” the statement said. “This increase in moisture also helps to cool hot spots inside the fire.”

Residents of the Remington Forest neighborhood along FM 1488 were finally allowed back in on Sept. 15.

A quick drive around the area shows the destruction and hard work firefighters put into saving structures. Many homes still standing untouched by the blazes, have scorched areas completely surrounding them.

Many animals were evacuated to temporary shelters including pets and livestock. Waller County officials are trying to reunite the animals with their owners.

“Information is being gathered in regards to animals that have come under the care of Waller County during the recent wildfires,” county officials posted to their Facebook page.  “As soon as further information is available it will be posted both on the Waller County Facebook Page, and the Waller County website.”

Officials say there is a phone bank set up for residents to try and locate their animals. The phone number is 281-889-1617.

No deaths were reported and under a dozen of the 300 or so firefighters on scene were treated for injuries like heat exhaustion and an injured leg.

Waller County officials will be posting updates for recovery assistance and aide on its Facebook page and website. Search for Waller County Page on Facebook or log on to www.co.waller.tx.us/ips/cms.

Photo by Caleb Harris

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