Fredericksburg, Texas — A fire that broke out on the outskirts of Fredericksburg, Texas, near Crabapple Road, has rapidly escalated, prompting authorities to issue evacuations for nearby residents and deploy emergency services to contain the blaze. As of March 16, 2025, the fire, which has been dubbed the “Crabapple Fire,” has burned a significant portion of Gillespie County, and local firefighters, assisted by state resources, are working tirelessly to bring the situation under control.
Details of the Blaze and Evacuations
The fire began early on the morning of March 16, when residents of Fredericksburg noticed thick plumes of smoke rising from the direction of Crabapple Road, approximately 10 miles north of the city center. By mid-afternoon, the fire had spread to over 200 acres, threatening residential areas and prompting evacuation orders for several neighborhoods. The rapid spread of the fire was fueled by dry conditions and strong winds, which made firefighting efforts particularly challenging.
Gillespie County Fire Marshal, Carlos Garcia, spoke with local media outlets, stating that the fire has already damaged several properties, including homes and barns, but fortunately, no fatalities have been reported. However, a few individuals have been treated for smoke inhalation and minor burns.
“Firefighters are working on the front lines, battling the blaze, while air support has been deployed to assist with aerial water drops,” Garcia said. “We are continuing to monitor the fire and encourage residents in the affected areas to comply with evacuation orders to ensure their safety.”
Emergency Response and Assistance
In addition to local fire departments, Texas A&M Forest Service has sent specialized teams, including bulldozers and other firefighting equipment, to help create firebreaks and slow the blaze’s progression. Meanwhile, Gillespie County Emergency Management has set up shelters at the Fredericksburg High School and St. Mary’s Catholic Church, where residents affected by the evacuations can find temporary refuge.
The fire has also garnered attention from state agencies, as well as fire departments from neighboring counties, who have arrived to offer reinforcements. Austin Fire Department sent additional crews to help manage the escalating situation.
“We are coordinating with the state fire services to deploy as much manpower as possible,” said Chief Rick Lopez of the Austin Fire Department. “Our primary concern right now is protecting lives and preventing the fire from reaching more populated areas.”
Impact on the Community
The fire has not only affected residential properties but also disrupted daily life in Fredericksburg, a popular tourist destination known for its German heritage, wineries, and picturesque landscapes. Local businesses, including those in the city’s historic district, have been forced to close temporarily as authorities assess the safety of the area.
One local resident, Sandy Miller, shared her experience with the fire: “I was just getting ready for work when I noticed the smoke. The evacuation order came quickly, and it was a scramble to pack up important documents and get my family out safely. It’s scary seeing something like this so close to home.”
Many residents, especially those with livestock, have been concerned about the safety of their animals, as the fire has been particularly destructive in rural areas where ranches and farms are located.
Weather Conditions and Challenges
The dry conditions in the area, combined with high winds, are complicating firefighting efforts. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for much of central Texas, including Gillespie County, meaning the risk of wildfires is at an elevated level due to the combination of hot temperatures, low humidity, and gusty winds.
Austin Weather Service has forecasted that the winds, which are expected to reach 25 to 35 miles per hour, could continue throughout the day, making it difficult to contain the fire. Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors, avoid outdoor activities, and refrain from using grills or fireworks to prevent further fires from starting.
Looking Ahead
As the fire continues to spread, authorities are carefully monitoring its behavior and planning for the worst-case scenario. There are concerns that if the fire is not contained soon, it could spread further into the Hill Country region, which is densely wooded and known for its steep terrain, which may hinder firefighting efforts.
The Gillespie County Sheriff’s Office has advised residents who are not affected by the fire to stay away from the area, as emergency services are focused on responding to the crisis. Meanwhile, local authorities are working with the American Red Cross and other humanitarian organizations to provide assistance to evacuees.
Conclusion and Ongoing Efforts
The Crabapple Fire in Fredericksburg remains an active threat, but emergency responders are making progress in containing the blaze. As of now, evacuation orders remain in place, and firefighting crews will continue working through the night to protect lives and properties in the area.
Local authorities have vowed to keep residents informed with real-time updates as the situation evolves. Officials also urge the public to respect evacuation orders, stay tuned for emergency alerts, and be prepared for any further developments.
