AUSTIN, Texas — Many people were forced to evacuate their homes as crews work to contain a 400-acre wildfire that started in Bastrop County Sunday afternoon.
According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, the wildfire – named the Hudson Fire – began just after noon, eight miles east of Bastrop city limits and north of State Highway 71.
In a media briefing Monday morning, the Texas A&M Forest Service said the wildfire was caused by a structure fire. As of 4 p.m., the fire had spread across 400 acres and was 50% contained.
Around 65 homes were initially evacuated after the Bastrop County Sheriff's Office issued precautionary evacuation orders in the area between Alum Creek Road and Cottletown Road, as the wind began blowing the fire northward. Subsequent evacuations were issued at 3 p.m. for residents from SH 71 at Alum Creek Road north to Gotier Trace.
Will Sellers is a neighbor who is renting a nearby property and is most concerned about his animals.
"So, right now, I got three dogs and two goats. I have no idea if they're safe," Sellers said. "Pretty nervous, definitely. Definitely more concerned about them than material stuff over there."
Residents who were asked to evacuate can stay at the Smithville Recreation Center at 106 Royston St. Animals are not allowed at the shelter, but local agriculture and animal services are working on a plan for animals impacted by the fire.
In Monday's media briefing, officials said some residents have already been able to return home.
Texas Parks and Wildlife, Bastrop County ESD 2, STAR Flight and the Smithville Fire Department are assisting the Texas A&M Forest Service as they attempt to contain the fire. Two STAR Flight helicopters and Forest Service "super scoopers" are also being used.
This area of Bastrop County is no stranger to wildfires. The Powder Keg Fire burned 117 acres in a similar area of the county in August 2023.
"We have plants that are a little bit more flammable with a little bit less rain to support that. And of course, we do have also the number one cause of fires in Texas in that area. and that's people," Kari Hines with the Texas A&M Forest Service said.
Sen. Ted Cruz said Sunday that he and his team were monitoring the fire and urged residents in the area to heed instructions from their local officials.