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Monday, September 26, 2011

Bastrop Wildfire



This is the skyline of Downtown Austin, 3 days after the fires in Bastrop began (September 7th, 2011).  This photo was taken from Barton Creek Mall.  Typically on a clear day, you could see downtown's skyline well.  On  September 4th, the day the wildfire in Bastrop began, 3 other wildfires sparked that same day.  One was in the Steiner Ranch community, off of FM620, one in Spicewood near Hwy 71 and a third in Leander off of Hwy 183.

The cause of the Steiner Ranch and the Bastrop fires were suppossedly caused by electrical (this information was not confirmed).   The Bastrop fire was so massive, that it consumed over 1,500 homes, 34,000 acres and killed 2 people.  It is said that this fire is the most catastrophic fire in Texas history.  The fire burned continuously for the entire week.

About 3 months ago, I remember driving to Houston for a short sale seminar, driving Eastward thru Hwy 71 and noticing the tall and plush trees that cascade over the highway for miles and miles in Bastrop.  Sad to say, these trees are gone and only sticks remain.

The photos below were taken on 9/13.  Many areas are still closed off and guarded by Sheriffs.  Tahitian Village is secured.  I found several trailers before the burned area on the North side of Hwy 71, owned by insurance companies such as State Farm, Allstate, USAA, etc.

It is a very unfortunate event.  To make things worse, the people whom have lost their homes cannot find temporary housing in Bastrop, as there are none available.  If you are one of these people, please give me a call at (512)786-7355 to see how we can help.

FEMA and the Red Cross and several outreach ministries are asking for donations for these families.  I know that clothing and supplies cannot mend your pain but we offer our prayers to you.