Magnolia Area flees wildfires
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MAGNOLIA, Texas — Fire officials said 8,000 people have been evacuated from their homes and a school district has canceled classes because of a massive wildfire raging in the Magnolia area.
RAW VIDEO: Magnolia Wildfire 2
Investigators said the fire began along F.M. 1486 near Sandra Dee in Montgomery County about 3 p.m. Monday. About 1,600 acres have been consumed and the fire has been traveling southwest, detectives said.
At least 20 homes and one fire truck have burned, detectives said.
One firefighter was injured. The extent of his injuries has not been released.
The fire crossed into Grimes County late in the evening, destroying a few structures in the Lake Holly Hills area.
Most areas from the Waller/Montgomery County line east to just inside the Magnolia city limits and just south of F.M. 1488 to north of Shady Oaks are under a mandatory evacuation.
The following subdivisions are included in the evacuation area:
- Alford Estates
- High Chapperal
- Magnolia East
- Ranch Crest
- River Ranch Park
- Riverside Estates
- Toby’s Village
- Wisteria Farms
- Lake Holly Hills in Grimes County
Shelters have been set up in the following locations:
- First Baptist Church, Fifth at Main in Hempstead
- Grimes County Expo Center, 5220 F.M. 3455
- Magnolia Community Center on Industrial Lane
- Magnolia High School, 14350 F.M. 1488
A canteen for firefighters has been set up at the Texas Renaissance Festival grounds.
The Magnolia Independent School District canceled all classes scheduled for Tuesday.
No injuries have been reported.
Residents have been asked to not call 911 to report the fire. Residents should only call if there is an injury or threat of injury.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
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