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SMITHVILLE — The Hudson Fire, a fast-moving blaze that ignited over 400 acres northwest of Smithville, was fully contained after four days of intense firefighting, road closures and precautionary evacuations.
Local and state crews finalized mop-up efforts about 6 p.m. Nov. 7, after finding minimal heat and smoke sources, according to the Bastrop County Office of Emergency Management. Firefighting teams will remain in the area throughout the week, working on line rehabilitation and monitoring pine needle drop in heat-exposed areas, which can reignite flames, officials said.
The fire, which began Nov. 3, was sparked by a structure fire south of Park Road 1C and rapidly spread through dry grass and wooded areas due to brisk winds and low humidity, according to first responders. The Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office issued evacuation orders for neighborhoods near Alum Creek Road and Cottletown Road, while road closures were put in place as the fire threatened nearby communities.
“It’s all the perfect conditions,” Elgin firefighter Curtis Craig said, after the first full night of con- tainment efforts. “Every department in the county responded.”
Over 90 state personnel and 60 assets were dispatched to assist, following Gov. Greg Abbott’s disaster declaration in response to increasing wildfire dangers across the state.
The Texas A&M Forest Service and other agencies contributed vital resources throughout the four-daylong process, including bulldozers, helicopters and fire suppression aircraft. The Department of Public Safety dispatched highway patrol troopers and a firefighting helicopter, while the Texas Department of State Health Services supported with medics and ambulances.
Additional support came from Texas Parks & Wildlife game wardens, state park police and disaster recovery agents from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service to aid in animal evacuation and sheltering.
As the fire intensified, approximately 65 homes were evacuated, with 20 homes considered at high risk. The Smithville Recreation Center provided temporary shelter for those displaced, and Mayfest Park hosted an animal shelter to assist evacuated residents with pets.
Evacuation orders were lifted Nov. 5, roads were reopened shortly after.
Reaching 100% containment Nov. 7 marked the end of a challenging week for emergency personnel and residents alike, according to the Office of Emergency Management. For the coming days, residents can expect to see continued fire management activities as crews work to fully secure the area.
