The San Saba County Sheriff's Office, along with the Texas A&M Forest Service, volunteer fire departments (VFDs), and multiple assisting agencies, is pleased to report that the Cottonwood Creek Fire has been fully contained as of March 13, 2025, at 7:15 PM.
Incident Summary:
• Start Date & Time: March 12, 2025, at approximately 4:55 PM
• Location: Cottonwood Creek area, northeast of San Saba
• Cause: Accidental ignition from a skid steer-mounted saw during tree-cutting operations
• Total Acres Burned: 635 acres
Containment Timeline:
o March 12, 4:55 PM – Fire reported at 150 acres, 0% contained
o March 12, 10:00 PM – Fire reached 600 acres, 70% contained
o March 13, 8:00 AM – 600 acres, 80% contained
o March 13, 6:00 PM – 633.2 acres, 95% contained
o March 13, 7:15 PM – 100% containment achieved Response and Firefighting Efforts Fire crews from multiple agencies, including the Texas A&M Forest Service, local volunteer fire departments, TIFMAS (Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System), and aerial firefighting units, worked tirelessly to suppress the fire.
Bulldozers and ground crews built containment lines, while aircraft conducted strategic water drops to slow the spread.
Firefighters focused on mopping up hot spots throughout March 13, ensuring that flare-ups would not reignite in the dry, windy conditions. As of March 14, patrols will continue until noon to monitor the area and ensure complete extinguishment. TFS will keep the location listed as active until as late as Thursday, March 20, to quickly address any concerns that could arise from conditions.
Impact Assessment
• 0 structures destroyed
• 0 homes lost
• No evacuation orders issued
• No injuries reported Fire Prevention & Safety Reminder
The San Saba County Sheriff’s Office urges residents to remain cautious, as dry conditions and strong winds continue to pose a fire risk. A Red Flag Warning remains in effect for the region.
To prevent future wildfires:
•Avoid outdoor burning during high-risk conditions.
• Properly maintain equipment to prevent sparks.
• Follow all local fire restrictions and advisories.
We are grateful to all firefighters, emergency personnel, and assisting agencies who worked to contain this fire and protect our community.