The Hidden Pines Fire in Bastrop County has engulfed more than 4,000 acres and is only 15 percent contained, the Texas A&M Forest Service reports.
This is a dramatic turn for the worse, as just 24 hours ago the fire only burned 250 acres and was 50 percent contained.
Yesterday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott toured the area by air and will be on the ground this morning. The site has been declared a disaster area.
Touring the #BastropFire by air today & ground tomorrow. Thanks to 1st Responders aiding the residents. #txlege pic.twitter.com/uNosIN5Tic
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) October 14, 2015
The Austin American-Statesman reports that nine homes were destroyed, along with more than 150 that are currently threatened.
Blackhawk helicopters bringing water to help fight the fire #HiddenPinesFire pic.twitter.com/LY1ylD1P01
— Bastrop County SO (@BastropCountySO) October 14, 2015
The Bastrop County Sheriff's Office said on Twitter that it will take some time to extinguish the inferno.
