AUSTIN, Texas — Fire crews in Gillespie County along with the Texas A&M Forest Service are battling a large wildfire north of Fredericksburg that sparked on Saturday afternoon.
According to Gillespie County officials, the fire – named the Crabapple fire – started in the 8700 block of Lower Crabapple Road around 1 p.m.
All Gillespie County fire departments are responding to the fire. Around 2 p.m., the forest service said it was sending air support to assist ground crews.
By 4:20 p.m. the fire had jumped across N. State Highway 16 and was headed toward FM 1631.
According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, the 400-acre fire is 0% contained as of 5:50 p.m. Saturday.
Anyone located in the areas between State Highway 16 and FM 1631 and between Ranch Road 1323 and Ranch Road 2721 has been advised to evacuate. If anyone has been displaced, a shelter is available at Faith Baptist Church at 3022 N. State Highway 16 in Fredericksburg.
The Fredericksburg Police Department has asked the public to refrain from calling dispatch to ask for updates about the fire.
The public is asked to avoid the area.
Anyone who would like to donate to help first responders can drop water or electrolyte drinks at the Fredericksburg Fire Department at 126 W. Main St.
