Single Publication

Welder Complex Fire Evening Update
March 4, 2025
8:30 p.m.

Size: 175 acres
Containment: 0%
Start Date: March 4, 2025
Cause: Unknown, under investigation

Firefighters are continuing to suppress the wildfires around Sinton, TX through very high winds and difficult working conditions. Crews have been working all afternoon to slow spread of both the initial Welder Fire and the additional fire, Railway Fire, in spite of and protect structures. These fires both started and quickly began growing due to the high wind speeds and extreme fire danger in South Texas. Evacuation orders were issued earlier today, evacuating a large area and moving residents to the San Patricio County Fairgrounds to protect public lives as the Welder Fire began burning towards the town of Sinton. Firefighters from around the area and across the state have been working all afternoon to protect structures in Sinton as the fire impacted the community. Heavy Equipment has been working to construct containment lines in open areas, working to connect streets and stop open spread of the fire across the landscape.

The high winds are expected to calm overnight and allow a brief reprieve before picking up again tomorrow morning. During this period with light winds firefighters will take advantage of the better conditions to construct containment lines and better protect structures that are around the fire or within the burned areas. Crews will work to extinguish any heat sources along the lines constructed by bulldozers, working to reduce the chance of new growth tomorrow. 

Evacuations and Closures:
There is currently an evacuated area between Business Highway 77, US Highway 181, and TX-89. Evacuees are welcome at the shelter set up at the San Patricio County Fairgrounds.

Damages and Injuries:
There have been reports of damaged structures at this time and crews are working to evaluate and protect all structures within the burned areas.