Fredericksburg, Texas – The Fredericksburg Fire/EMS Department in conjunction with crews from across the region, state and nation are continuing to work to contain the Crabapple Fire.
As of the last update from the Texas A&M Forest Service, the affected area is estimated at 8,640 acres and is zero percent contained. The fire is generally still moving east to southeast and is located between Lower Crabapple and Farm to Market Road 1631.
“Thankfully, the wind has subsided in the Texas Hill Country and our crews are working to stop the forward progress of the Crabapple Fire,” Fredericksburg Fire Chief Lynn Bizzell said. “Our team will continue work throughout the night, including monitoring FM1631 to make sure the fire doesn’t progress.”
Currently, there are two known road closures State Highway 16 North from the Fredericksburg City Limits to Eckert Road as well as Lower Crabapple from Eckert Road into Fredericksburg.
Local law enforcement has worked to advise people in the affected area. In a precautionary effort, Central Texas Electric has cut the power to the fire effected area.
As crews continue to work on containment, everyone is asked to avoid the area. People in the area should listen to crews on the ground about evacuations and prepare to evacuate.
Gillespie County Judge Daniel Jones has issued a declaration of disaster, which allows for officials to evacuate, close roads, and control ingress/egress as needed.
If anyone has been displaced, a shelter is through the Red Cross at Zion Lutheran Church in Fredericksburg at 426 W. Main St.
FIRE INFORMATION
The fire started around 1 p.m. near 8700 Lower Crabapple Road, which is nearly 11 miles north of downtown Fredericksburg and moved east across Highway 16 North due to high winds and prime conditions for wildfires in the area.
The Fredericksburg Fire/EMS Facebook page will be updated as information becomes available.
To learn more about the City of Fredericksburg Fire/EMS, go to FBGTX.org or contact City Hall at (830) 997-7521.
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