JUST IN: Texas declares state of emergency as wildfire forces evacuations

Texas Declares State of Emergency as Wildfire Forces Thousands to Evacuate

April 22, 2025 – Austin, TX — Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of emergency as a fast-moving wildfire continues to ravage parts of central Texas, prompting mass evacuations and overwhelming local emergency services.

The wildfire, which ignited over the weekend near the Hill Country region, has scorched more than 75,000 acres as of Monday night. Driven by strong winds, dry conditions, and unseasonably high temperatures, the fire has already destroyed dozens of homes and structures, forcing residents in multiple counties to flee with little warning.

“This is a rapidly evolving and dangerous situation,” Governor Abbott said in a press conference this morning. “We are deploying all available state resources to assist local responders, and I urge Texans in affected areas to heed evacuation orders immediately.”

Officials have issued mandatory evacuations in parts of Travis, Burnet, and Blanco counties. Emergency shelters have been opened in Austin and surrounding cities, and the Texas National Guard has been mobilized to assist in evacuation and firefighting efforts.

The fire remains zero percent contained as of the latest update. Firefighters from neighboring states, including Oklahoma and Louisiana, have arrived to help contain the blaze, which officials fear could grow even larger if weather conditions do not improve.

“Our biggest challenge is the wind,” said Fire Chief Angela Martinez. “It’s making aerial efforts nearly impossible and causing the fire to jump containment lines.”

No fatalities have been reported, but several firefighters have sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

President Biden has been briefed on the situation and pledged federal support if requested.

Residents are urged to monitor local emergency broadcasts and check with the Texas Division of Emergency Management for real-time updates.