Large wildfire prompts evacuations near Bastrop in Central Texas

BASTROP COUNTY, Texas – A large wildfire has prompted evacuations near Bastrop in Central Texas.

The fire has been designated the Hudson Fire and according to the Texas A&M Forest Service, it currently is 400 acres in size. It is about 15% contained at this time.

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Evacuations have been ordered for areas near the community of Alum Creek, just southeast of Bastrop.

The Bastrop County Office of Emergency Management said residents from Highway 71 at Alum Creek north to Gotier Trace have been notified to evacuate.

Fire crews with heavy equipment have been working to create containment lines and firetrucks are working to protect threatened structures in the area. Aircraft have also been working to fight the fire.

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Texas Governor Greg Abbott posted on X that emergency response personnel are at the scene.

“We deployed over 90 personnel & over 60 assets, including firefighters & troopers, air tankers, fire engines, & more. We stand ready to deploy all resources needed to protect Texans. Praying for the safety of all in Bastrop,” Abbott said on X.

At 8:50 p.m., the Bastrop County Office of Emergency Management said the fire is slowing down its forward movement thanks to lower winds and higher humidity, but it has not completely stopped moving.

“Forward progression has slowed, but has not been stopped. There are now 7 bulldozers and over 20 fire trucks on scene. Lower wind speeds and higher humidity after night fall is helping decrease fire behavior,” the office said.