Crabapple Wildfire Rages Near Fredericksburg, 0% Contained

A massive wildfire, known as the Crabapple Fire, is raging near Fredericksburg, Texas, and has scorched over 8,600 acres with 0% containment as of Saturday evening. Strong winds have spread smoke and ash towards Austin, prompting multiple 911 calls and a Red Flag Warning for the area. The fire, which began on Lower Crabapple Road, is causing evacuations, with evacuees directed to Zion Lutheran Church in Fredericksburg for shelter. Crews from Gillespie County and the Texas A&M Forest Service are working to contain the fire, utilizing suppression aircraft to support ground efforts. Fire Chief Lynn Bizzell noted that embers are being carried up to half a mile, igniting additional fires. The fire's rapid expansion and high danger have led to warnings for residents between Highway 16 North and FM 1631 to prepare for possible evacuation.