Gillespie County Faces Crabapple Fire Emergency

Smoke rises from the Crabapple Fire as firefighters work to contain the blaze.

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News Summary

The Crabapple Fire, which ignited in Gillespie County, Texas, on March 15, has expanded to 9,500 acres with only 55% containment reported. Evacuations are in place for residents in affected areas, while firefighters mobilize significant resources to combat the blaze. No injuries have been reported, but numerous structures have been destroyed, and the fire becomes the second-largest active wildfire in Texas. Officials warn of increasing fire risks in the coming days as the community rallies to support those displaced by this emergency.

Gillespie County Faces Crabapple Fire Emergency

What Happened

The Crabapple Fire ignited on Saturday, March 15, at approximately 1 p.m. in Gillespie County, Texas. The fire originated in the 8700 block of Lower Crabapple Road, close to Fredericksburg. Since its start, the area affected by the fire has expanded to approximately 9,500 acres, with containment efforts reporting the fire to be 55% contained as of Sunday night. The initial size estimates were revised from 8,640 acres following updated mapping of the situation.

Who Is Affected

While no injuries have been reported, the Crabapple Fire has resulted in the destruction of numerous structures, putting many more at risk. In response to potential danger, mandatory evacuations have been advised for residents in specific areas, including those between State Highway 16 North and FM 1631, and Ranch Road 1323 and Ranch Road 2721. To assist those displaced, a shelter has been established at Zion Lutheran Church, located at 426 West Main St. in Fredericksburg.

Official Response

Gillespie County Judge Daniel Jones has issued a disaster declaration, enabling local authorities to enforce evacuations and implement necessary road closures. This includes closures on State Highway 16 North and Lower Crabapple Road from Eckert Road to Fredericksburg. Additionally, Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved a request for Fire Management Assistance Grants. This ruling allows Texas to be eligible for a 75% federal reimbursement for firefighting costs incurred during this crisis.

Firefighting Efforts

Firefighting efforts have mobilized a significant response team, comprising approximately 750 responders and 300 pieces of firefighting equipment. Ground and air crews have made notable progress in establishing containment lines around most areas affected by the fire. Support from the Texas Department of Emergency Management and the Texas A&M Forest Service has been crucial, with aircraft conducting targeted water drops on identified hot spots.

Impact

The fire has been driven by strong winds, which initially fueled its rapid expansion, allowing embers to travel up to half a mile and ignite secondary fires. Although the immediate threat to human lives has been mitigated without reported injuries, the loss of property has raised concerns among residents. The fire currently stands as the second-largest active wildfire in Texas, following the Wildmill Fire in Roberts County, which has burned 23,147 acres.

What’s Next

Looking ahead, weather conditions are expected to deteriorate in the upcoming week, with forecasts predicting an escalation in fire risk. Experts have identified an extreme fire danger for the coming days, emphasizing the need for residents to refrain from outdoor burning, given the ongoing dry conditions this winter. Additionally, a community initiative is being organized to facilitate donations to the Crabapple Fire Relief Fund, aimed at assisting those affected by the wildfires.

In summary, the Crabapple Fire in Gillespie County has prompted significant emergency responses, evacuations, and community support efforts as officials work diligently to contain the blaze and protect residents’ safety.