Fredericksburg Fire Today: Live Updates on Crabapple Fire, Texas Wildfire Map, and Austin Blaze Coverage

A rapidly spreading wildfire, now dubbed the Crabapple Fire, has ignited near Fredericksburg, TX, prompting evacuations in Gillespie County and sending smoke across Central Texas, including Austin. As of 3:00 PM CDT today, the blaze has consumed over 1,200 acres, with 15% containment. This article provides live updates on the Fredericksburg fire today, evacuation routes, and how to track the flames using the Texas wildfire map.

Crabapple Fire: Key Updates for Fredericksburg, TX

Location: The fire began near Crabapple Road and RR 1320, 8 miles northwest of downtown Fredericksburg.

Containment: 15% as of 3:00 PM CDT, with 200+ firefighters battling flames.

Evacuations: Mandatory orders for Bear Creek, Crabapple Rd, and Baronet Ranch subdivisions.

Damage: 3 structures destroyed; no injuries reported.

Cause: Under investigation, though dry conditions and 20 mph winds fueled rapid spread.

Shelters:

Fredericksburg High School (1407 N Llano St)

Stonewall Volunteer Fire Department (8037 TX-16)

Texas Wildfire Map: Tracking the Fredericksburg Blaze

For real-time tracking, use the Texas A&M Forest Service Interactive Wildfire Map (link here) to monitor:

Active fire perimeters near Fredericksburg and Gillespie County.

Air quality alerts for Austin and Central Texas.

Road closures on US-290 and FM 648.

Austin Fires: How Central Texas is Impacted

While the Crabapple Fire dominates headlines, smaller wildfires have erupted near Austin today:

Manchaca Grass Fire: 50 acres burned south of Austin (60% contained).

Smoke Advisory: Austinites report hazy skies; sensitive groups urged to stay indoors.

Evacuation Routes and Safety Tips

Evacuation Routes from Fredericksburg:

Northbound US-87 → Mason, TX

Eastbound US-290 → Johnson City, TX

Southbound RR 1623 → Comfort, TX

Safety Tips:

Pack medications, IDs, and pet supplies.

Avoid using machinery that could spark flames.

Sign up for Gillespie County alerts at ReadyGillespie.org.

How to Help: Resources for Affected Residents

Donations: Contact Hill Country Community Pantry (Fredericksburg) for supply drives.

Livestock Relocation: Gillespie County Fairgrounds (530 Fair Park Dr) accepting animals.

KXAN Coverage: Live Updates and Expert Analysis

Local news outlet KXAN is providing 24/7 coverage of the Crabapple Fire, including:

Live broadcasts from fire lines.

Interviews with Texas A&M Forest Service officials.

Air quality reports for Travis and Gillespie Counties.

Watch Live: KXAN Livestream

FAQs: Fredericksburg Fire Today

Q: Is Highway 290 open near Fredericksburg?

A: Yes, but avoid non-essential travel due to smoke and emergency vehicles.

Q: How do I report a fire in Austin?

A: Call 911 or the Austin Fire Department non-emergency line: (512) 974-0130.

Q: Are there volunteer opportunities for the Crabapple Fire?

A: Visit VolunteerTX.org for roles in shelters and supply distribution.

Conclusion

The Crabapple Fire near Fredericksburg, TX, underscores the severe wildfire risk gripping Central Texas. Stay updated via the Texas wildfire map, heed evacuation orders, and rely on KXAN for breaking news. Share this guide to keep your community informed and safe.More....!