A wildfire in Bastrop County, Texas has caused mandatory evacuations, according to county officials. The wildfire is located south of Park Road 1C, between Bastrop State Park and Buescher State Park. The fire, known as the Hudson Fire, has been estimated at 250 acres with only 5% containment as of 5 p.m. The strong south winds are causing the fire to move north.
Evacuations have been put in place for residents on Highway 71 between Alum Creek to Goiter Trace and residents on Park Road 1C between Alum Creek Road and Cottletown Road. Those who are evacuating can seek shelter at the Smithville Recreation Center starting at 6:30 p.m. The county officials are working on a plan for people with animals who need to evacuate as well.
Park Road 1C and Goetier Trace are closed as of 4 p.m. due to the wildfire. The fire has jumped across Park Road 1C and has entered open fields. Local emergency responders are expected to stay on the scene overnight, and they are being assisted by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Texas A&M Forest Service, who are providing heavy equipment and a helicopter to battle the fire.
The situation is still developing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. In the meantime, residents are urged to follow evacuation orders and stay safe during this wildfire emergency.
