Fredericksburg Wildfire Containment Reaches 40% as Crews Battle Blaze
Massive Wildfire Near Fredericksburg Threatens Homes and Forces Evacuations
Firefighters are making steady progress in containing a massive 8,600-acre wildfire that erupted north of Fredericksburg, Texas, on Saturday afternoon. Known as the Crabapple Fire, the blaze has forced hundreds of evacuations, led to multiple road closures, and triggered a disaster declaration in Gillespie County.
The fire ignited near Lower Crabapple Road around 1:45 p.m., fueled by strong winds and dry conditions. Smoke from the blaze has traveled as far as Austin, raising concerns about air quality in the region.
As of early Sunday morning, the Texas A&M Forest Service reported that the fire was 40% contained, thanks to favorable weather changes and relentless firefighting efforts.
Wind Subsides, Giving Fire Crews an Advantage
The Fredericksburg Fire Department, alongside multiple state and local agencies, has been working around the clock to combat the fire.
Fire Chief Lynn Bizzell shared a promising update:
Thankfully, the wind has subsided in the Texas Hill Country, and our crews are working to stop the forward progress of the Crabapple Fire.
Initially, strong gusty winds made firefighting efforts challenging, allowing the flames to spread rapidly across dry vegetation. The National Weather Service had issued a Red Flag Warning for South Central Texas, meaning conditions were ideal for wildfires.
However, overnight weather shifts have provided a much-needed break, allowing firefighters to strengthen containment lines and slow the fire’s spread.
Evacuations, Road Closures, and Disaster Declaration
Authorities have taken swift action to ensure public safety, enforcing evacuations and road closures.
Gillespie County Judge Daniel Jones issued a disaster declaration, which allows officials to:
✅ Evacuate residents in high-risk areas
✅ Close roads and limit public access
✅ Mobilize emergency resources quickly
Current Road Closures Due to the Fredericksburg Wildfire:
- State Highway 16 North – Closed from Fredericksburg City Limits to Eckert Road
- Lower Crabapple Road – Closed from Eckert Road into Fredericksburg
Shelter for Evacuated Residents:
A temporary emergency shelter has been set up at Faith Baptist Church (3022 N State Highway). Officials confirm that at least 500 people have been evacuated from their homes so far.
FAA Issues Temporary Flight Restrictions
To aid aerial firefighting operations, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has placed a temporary flight restriction (TFR) over the wildfire area.
These restrictions prevent drones and unauthorized aircraft from interfering with helicopters and air tankers assisting in firefighting efforts.
Why This Matters:
- 🛑 Unauthorized drones can delay operations and put firefighters at risk
- 🚁 Aerial firefighting crews play a crucial role in containing large wildfires
- 🚨 Violating flight restrictions can result in fines or legal action
If you’re in the affected area, avoid using drones to take photos or videos, as this could disrupt emergency response efforts.
Texas Faces 33 Wildfires, Burning Over 40,990 Acres
The Crabapple Fire is just one of 33 active wildfires currently burning across Texas. According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, wildfires have already scorched over 40,990 acres across multiple counties, including:
- 🔥 Llano County
- 🔥 Bandera County
- 🔥 Real County
- 🔥 Duval County
- 🔥 Hidalgo County
- 🔥 Refugio County
Why Texas Is at High Wildfire Risk Right Now
- Extreme drought conditions have left vegetation dry and highly flammable
- Gusty winds accelerate the spread of fires
- Above-average temperatures create a high-risk fire enenvironment
🔥 Did You Know?
Texas leads the nation in total acres burned annually due to wildfires. The 2022 Texas wildfire season saw over 1 million acres burned, making it one of the worst in recent history.
| Wildfire Safety Tips |
|---|
| Avoid affected areas and allow emergency crews to work |
| Monitor official updates from the Texas A&M Forest Service |
| Prepare an emergency evacuation kit, including documents, medication, food, and water |
| Have an evacuation plan in place if you live in fire-prone areas |
| Reduce wildfire risks by maintaining defensible space around your home |
What to Do If You’re in an Evacuation Zone
| Evacuation Tips |
|---|
| Leave immediately – Wildfires can spread rapidly, cutting off escape routes |
| Follow emergency alerts – Tune into local news, official websites, and emergency notifications |
| Don’t return home until it’s safe – Wait for official clearance before heading back |
A Community Unites Against the Fire
Despite the devastation, the Fredericksburg community has shown incredible strength and resilience. Local and state agencies are working tirelessly to protect lives, homes, and businesses, while volunteers and organizations are stepping up to support evacuees.
How You Can Help
- Donate to relief organizations assisting displaced residents
- Support local fire departments by contributing to firefighter funds
- Provide meals or supplies to affected families
What’s Next?
Firefighters will continue strengthening containment lines and monitoring weather conditions. Officials are urging residents to remain vigilant, as hot, dry conditions could cause flare-ups.
For real-time wildfire updates, visit the Texas A&M Forest Service Wildfire Tracker.
Final Thoughts: Stay Informed, Stay Safe
The Crabapple Fire near Fredericksburg serves as a stark reminder of the power and unpredictability of wildfires. While firefighters have made significant progress, the situation remains fluid, and caution is still necessary.
If you live in a wildfire-prone area, take proactive steps to protect yourself, your family, and your property.
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📢 Stay updated, follow official guidance, and support your local firefighters!
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