Disaster Declared as Crabapple Fire Rages Near Fredericksburg—Evacuations Underway

The Texas Hill Country is in crisis as the relentless Crabapple Fire continues to engulf thousands of acres, forcing evacuations and road closures. Gillespie County Judge Daniel Jones has issued a declaration of disaster, granting authorities the power to evacuate residents and restrict movement in affected areas.

0% Containment—Thousands of Acres Scorched

Firefighters from across the region, state, and even the nation are battling an inferno that has now torched approximately 8,640 acres, with 0% containment as of Saturday night. The fire is spreading rapidly east to southeast, endangering properties and livelihoods in its path.

Fredericksburg Fire EMS has confirmed road closures:

• State Highway 16 N. (from Fredericksburg city limits to Eckert Road)
• Lower Crabapple Road (from Eckert Road into Fredericksburg)

Desperate Firefighting Efforts Amidst Calming Winds

Fire Chief Lynn Bizzell expressed cautious optimism, noting that winds have died down, allowing crews to aggressively attack the fire’s forward progress. Firefighters are monitoring FM 1631, a critical containment line, to prevent further spread.

“Our team will continue working throughout the night to stop this monster before it claims more land and homes,” Bizzell stated.

Evacuations Underway—Shelters Open for Displaced Residents

With embers leaping half a mile, igniting new fires, residents between Highway 16 North and FM 1631, and between Ranch Roads 1323 and 2721, are urged to prepare for evacuation. Emergency responders are making house-to-house notifications as the situation evolves.

A shelter has been established at: Zion Lutheran Church 426 W. Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Power Cut to Fire Region—Warnings for More Evacuations

Central Texas Electric has shut off power in affected areas as a precaution. Residents are being urged to stay alert and follow emergency broadcasts. Officials are stressing that this fire is unpredictable and could require more evacuations at a moment’s notice.

Red Flag Warning—Texas Continues to Burn

A Red Flag Warning remains in effect across much of Texas, bringing with it 45 mph gusts, fueling the inferno. With extreme fire weather conditions persisting, authorities are pleading with residents to take evacuation orders seriously and stay prepared.

This wildfire comes just weeks after another fast-moving blaze near San Antonio’s Southeast side, which triggered mandatory evacuations and highway shutdowns. The state is in a cycle of devastation—will Texas be ready for what’s next?

This is a developing story. Stay tuned for real-time updates.