Update on Bexar County Wildfires: Calaveras and Duke Fires
On Tuesday afternoon, a significant wildfire known as the Calaveras Fire sparked approximately 13 miles southeast of downtown San Antonio, near I-37 and Southton Road. Fire crews swiftly mobilized to combat the flames, leading to mandatory evacuation orders for residents in the vicinity.
Evacuations and Fire Response
The fire was reported at 12:45 p.m., with the Bexar County Office of Emergency Management issuing evacuation orders impacting 182 households. By 7:15 p.m., officials announced that residents could safely return home as the threat to the area had diminished.
Damage and Containment Progress
As of 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, initial assessments revealed that the wildfire had destroyed a mobile home, two barns, two chicken coops, and one shed. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries. To assist displaced residents, Red Cross emergency shelters were established in the area.
By Wednesday morning, fire crews successfully contained approximately 85% of the Calaveras Fire, which had scorched close to 60 acres. The area affected includes an RV park, housing subdivisions, and apartment complexes. Fire Chief Valerie Frausto indicated that crews were primarily focused on extinguishing remaining hot spots, cautioning that strong winds continued to impact fire behavior.
The Duke Fire
In addition to the Calaveras Fire, authorities reported another wildfire, the Duke Fire, burning roughly 50 acres near Duke and Trumbo roads. At approximately 4:26 p.m., the Duke Fire was reported to be 0% contained but showed some progress by Wednesday morning, with crews achieving around 20% containment.
Air Quality Concerns
Continuous smoke from both fires has led to unhealthy air quality across San Antonio. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities and avoid strenuous exercise to minimize health risks associated with smoke inhalation. As coordinated efforts continue, the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office posted advisories on social media, urging residents to steer clear of affected roads:
- 13400 Block Donop Road near IH-37 S and Southton Road
- 600 Block of Duke Road between Trumbo and Pleasanton Roads
- 24400 Block of Oliver and Blackjack Roads near U.S. Highway 281 South
- 15200 Belen Street near FM 1937 and Blue Wing Road
- 13000 Greenwood Road near Pearsall Road and IH-35 South
Ongoing Precautions and Fire Behavior
The National Weather Service has noted a marked increase in fire activity and erratic behavior due to strong winds and dry conditions in the Central Texas area. The Storm Prediction Center has issued an “extreme” fire danger outlook, indicating heightened risk for wildfires.
With a red flag warning active until 9 p.m., residents are urged to refrain from outdoor burning and to be cautious with open flames. The Bexar County Emergency Service District has deployed Wildland Fire Strike Teams to provide rapid response to grass fires and wildfires on both sides of the county.
Conclusion
Firefighters are currently making significant strides in containing the Calaveras and Duke wildfires. Community safety remains a priority, with ongoing efforts to monitor the situation and provide necessary support for affected residents. For continued updates, residents are encouraged to stay informed via local news and public safety announcements.
For further information, visit the Texas A&M Forest Service for maps and active fire updates.
