San Gabriel wildfire northwest of Austin continues as crews tame half of flames
A wildfire near Liberty Hill that prompted evacuations Saturday continued to burn Sunday, and firefighters had contained 50% of the 500-acre blaze by late afternoon.
As the fight against the San Gabriel Fire continued Sunday, crews focused on maintaining the fire's northern boundary as well as fortifying a fire line on the southern end, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service.
The Forest Service said retardant provided by air support has helped cool areas along the fire's boundary.
Multiple crews, including tankers, engines and air support, began fighting the fire along Tower Road on Saturday, an effort that contained 10% of the fire by 7 p.m. Residents of 200 homes in the area were briefly evacuated before being allowed to return home around 9 p.m.
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Public information map for the #SanGabrielFire in Williamson County showing an estimated 500 acres as of July 24, 2022.
This is a preliminary perimeter and is subject to change. pic.twitter.com/XZrVT23YHt— Incident Information - Texas A&M Forest Service (@AllHazardsTFS) July 24, 2022
The fire was further contained Sunday; an announcement from the Williamson County emergency management office after noon stated that 45% of the fire had been suppressed, up from 25% overnight.
On account of the fire, Lake Georgetown and surrounding trails have been closed until further notice as crews continue to work in the area.
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The cause of the fire has not been determined. There have been no reports of loss of life or property.
Update, 9 p.m.: The San Gabriel wildfire was 75% contained as of 8 p.m., according to the Williamson County emergency management office; 500 acres have burned.
This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Crews continue to battle Liberty Hill wildfire on Sunday
