Single Publication

Crabapple Fire Daily Update

3/17/2025

9:30pm

Size: 9737 acres

Containment: 85%

Date Started: 3/15/2025

Cause: Unknown, under investigation

Crews spent the day strengthening existing containment lines and tying lines together. A focus was made on the northern edge of the fire for a wind shift bringing Red Flag conditions. The winds caused several flare-ups in green pockets of fuels on the interior of the fire. Aircraft and engines worked hotspots to ensure nothing could carry over the containment lines. 

A more accurate estimate of acreage was achieved due to IR flights and on the ground mapping. A Post Fire Assessment Team (PFAT) completed damage assessments of structures affected by the fire. Multiple homes and outbuildings were lost or damaged. Details are below. 

Texas Department of Emergency Management is working with residents to provide post-fire assistance. 

The Red Cross shelter has been closed. 

Currently, food, water and other supply donations are not needed. To help with recovery efforts from the Crabapple Fire, Gillespie County has partnered with the OneStar Foundation, Rebuild Texas to establish the Crabapple Disaster Fund. At this time, this is the best way to help. Donations can be made here: https://onestarfoundation.org/crabapple-fire-relief-fund/.

Weather: Critical fire weather conditions will occur from late this morning through this evening. Southerly winds will continue tonight bringing warmer, moister air into South-Central Texas. Skies should remain partly cloudy. Low temperatures Tuesday morning will be 10-15 degrees warmer than today and mostly in the 50s.

Structures Threatened Originally: Approximately 50

Evacuations and closures: 

Evacuations were made on an individual home basis. If you were evacuated you may return to your home as conditions allow. Be aware that there are still many hazards in the area. 

All roads have been re-opened, but please avoid the area if possible. Please respect private property if traveling through the burned area. 

Damages and Injuries: One minor injury to a firefighter, they are expected to make a full recovery.

Damage Assessment Results

9 total residences destroyed
- 7 occupied
- 2 confirmed unoccupied
2 residences damaged
20 outbuildings destroyed
4 outbuildings damaged