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BASTROP, Texas (AP) — Authorities say a wildfire that has burned for a week in Central Texas and destroyed about 50 homes is 70 percent contained.
Bastrop County Judge Paul Pape said during a news conference Monday that about 270 firefighters are still working to strengthen fire lines surrounding the Hidden Pines Fire.
Pape says more residents likely will be allowed to return home Monday as utility crews work to fully restore power in the area about 40 miles southeast of Austin.
Steve Pollock with the Texas A&M Forest Service says hotspots — areas of the fire that are seemingly extinguished but then flare up again — remain a concern for firefighters.
Authorities say the Hidden Pines Fire began Tuesday when a farmer pulling a shredder through tall grass accidently ignited the grass.
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