BRYAN, Texas — Updated story: July 19, 6:14pm
According to the Texas Forest Service, 1852 acres are under 70% containment and all forward progress has been halted.
Updated story: July 19, 2:03pm
In a statement released by the fire department, officials stated that the fire is moving very slowly, consuming approximately 1800 acres and is 35 percent contained.
There is no danger to the neighborhood and homes surrounding the fire, according to authorities.
Currently, firefighters are still battling the fire.
Fire officials also said the fire has not crossed over to the Trinity river. Air support and bulldozers have been a huge asset in this fire, they said.
Fire Officials said despite the wind picking up and the humidity dropping, we are making progress. There are no homes or structures in danger at this time. Firefighters are repelling the fire, which is moving slowly in a northeasterly direction.
Texas A&M Forest Service, Walker County OEM, Walker County EMS, Texas Dept. of Emergency Management, Walker County Sheriff's Department, Texas DPS, Walker County Police Department, etc. All three constable offices, the R&B departments for Walker County Precinct 1 and 2, Lone Star Forestry, and private companies are cooperating.
Authorities expressed their appreciation for all the prayers and donations. In their words, it just goes to show that up here in the country, people are taken care of to an extent that is unmatched.
Later this evening, we will have another update.
Updated Story: July 19, 9:36am
According to Crabb Fire Officials, crews are back on scene with mutual aid departments.
The department has dozers and air support in place and starting a new round of operations.
According to fire officials, there is not much left to contain, and the wind coupled with low-humidity is not helping either.
When we have more information, we will update.
Firefighters requested prayers for those out here; they're doing the best they can with what they have.
Updated Story :July 18, 10:00pm
As of now, the fire is moving northeastward, according to the Crabbs Prairie VFD fire department.
The plot covers approximately 2000 acres and it is only 20 percent contained.
Officials said the humidity should slow the fire's progress during the night of July 18.
Authorities reported that relief crews are arriving from Lovelady, Weldon, Trinty, Riverside, and Thomas Lake Road Volunteer Fire Departments to assist throughout the night.
Fire officials said they have constructed a line around the fire with approximately 12 dozers. The fire department said they are hoping the wind will help put out the fire.
Fire officials said in the event that anything significant occurs, we will update you.
Fire officials are warning the public not to rubberneck. You are requested not to stop or drive near the fire area. Authorities are asking you not to drive down the street in order to avoid jamming up the roads. Those who do not live in the area are asked not to enter the area and to remain away from it.
Fire Fighters did mention, they were taken care of by Chick Fil A in Huntsville. They wanted to give a special thanks to the residents and the restaurant that provided refreshments.
Original Story- July 18 at 4:00pm:
The Crabbs Prairie Fire Department reported a large wildfire north of Wallace Road.
The FM 247 area is not in danger at this time, according to Fire officials.
According to Assistant Chief French, more resources are being summoned.
An active fire is being battled north of Pine Prairie between Lost Indian Camp and Old Cincinnati Rd.
Texas A&M Forest Service is on scene with command establishing an attack plan, according to fire officials.
As a result, the county is advising residents that if they observe smoke in the north end of the county, they are seeing this as well and the volunteer crews are working hard to put an end to it.
The fire is spreading north in the woods, toward Old Gifford Hill Rock Quarry.
An estimated 5 boosters, 2 tankers, 8 dozers, 6 side-by-side UTV's, and 1 helicopter are on scene. There is also emergency management on site.
There have been no evacuation requests from firefighters as of yet.
As of 4:00pm, it is estimated that 20% of the fire has been contained as of this time.
A number of mutual aid agencies from around the county, as well as the Walker County Police Department, are on scene. R&B resources as well.
As of right now, we are unsure of when the fire started or how it was discovered, but we will provide further updates in the near future.