Hidden Pines Wildfire Wreaks Havoc on Bastrop Co. [VIDEO]

By Erin Baxter

The state of Texas, especially the Hill Country, is grieving after fires in Bastrop County have destroyed 34 homes and other structures. Fires in Hidden Pines have multiplied and stretched out since Wednesday, and the number of homes burned has increased drastically, but firefighters appear to be making progress in containing the fire. It is estimated at this point that the fire has been contained at 25 percent. In its wake, the fire has already consumed 4,383 acres of land across the county.

Weather conditions have been more favorable for battling the fire, with relative humidity rising to 23 percent. Bastrop County Officials stated that stronger winds expected this afternoon did not materialize, which will also help.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of disaster in Bastrop County. He stated that there have been two more Blackhawk helicopters and Chinook helicopters dispatched over the area. He stated that he’s very grateful to FEMA for immediately approving the Fire Management Assistance Grant to Texas for this disaster. Abbot did note that we have been very fortunate in this fire that no lives have been lost as of yet.

For continuous updates, please follow this story on the Austin American-Statesman website: http://www.statesman.com/news/news/state-regional/bastrop-county-fire-spreads-to-4200-acres-only-15-/nn3m7/