Evacuations Prompted by Rapidly Spreading Wildfires

In an urgent response to the escalating wildfires in South Bexar County, residents have been evacuated to temporary shelters set up by local authorities and the Red Cross. The wildfires, named the Calaveras and Duke fires, posed a significant threat to homes and safety in the region.

Ana Ortiz, a resident affected by the fires, arrived at the Mission Espada emergency shelter accompanied by her three family dogs and her four daughters, two of whom have asthma. She sought refuge after being advised by Bexar County Sheriff’s Office deputies to evacuate due to heavy smoke and road closures.

Urgent Alerts and Community Response

Ortiz learned about the fire while on her way to pick up her daughters from school, receiving a timely alert from her neighbor. Upon returning home, she was immediately struck by the conditions: road closures, intense smoke, and the sight of fire trucks battling the blaze.

“It’s bittersweet that we’re fine, but I don’t have family here. I don’t know if I’ll have a home or where to go,” said Ortiz.

The shelter at Mission Espada Fellowship Hall on 10040 Espada Road was established to accommodate evacuees from the fires, which have been exacerbated by high winds of up to 75 mph.

Emergency Shelter Arrangements and Support

According to Mac Frank McNell, a regional mass care volunteer with the Red Cross, the shelter will remain operational as long as necessary, providing essentials such as water and snacks for up to 250 people. The Red Cross is also coordinating with local providers to offer meals as required.

Further Challenges for Residents

Another evacuee, Elyssa Worth, 54, was forced from her home near Old Corpus Christi Road in the face of the advancing Calaveras Fire. Waking to emergency alerts from the San Antonio Fire Department, she witnessed firefighters working to protect her neighborhood.

“I don’t know what I’m going to get home to,” Worth expressed, highlighting the uncertainty many residents face.

With mobility challenges, she was unable to retrieve important medications or glasses before fleeing to safety.

Current Status of the Fires

As of the latest reports, the Calaveras Fire covers approximately 60 acres and is 30% contained, while the Duke Fire has affected 50 acres and is currently uncontained. Both fires are a significant concern for local emergency services, who are working tirelessly to manage the situation.

For updates on the fire status and safety information, residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and local news sources.