Wildfire — Gillespie, Texas

2025-03-15 to 2025-03-20 · Gillespie, Texas

Event narrative

The Crabapple Wildfire started during the afternoon of the 15th. At the time the fire started relative humidity was less than 15% and sustained winds were 16-31 mph. There was a peak wind of 43 mph. A Red Flag Warning was in effect. Originally approximately 50 structures were threatened. Nine residences and 20 outbuildings were destroyed and two residences and four outbuildings were damaged. The fire was contained during the afternoon of the 20th and consumed 9,858 acres.

Wider weather episode

An upper-level jet streak moved over a cold front as it moved into a warm, moist airmass and generated thunderstorms. Some of these storms produced large hail. Behind the front the pressure gradient tightened and produced strong winds. The post frontal air was much drier. The combination of strong winds and dry air resulted in critical fire weather conditions.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1237378. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.