Wildfire scorches land, destroys homes and businesses in

Bastrop/ Smithville area

2/28/09  Officials now say that a wildfire raging out of control between Bastrop and Smithville has consumed some 650 acres, destroyed over 20 homes and/or businesses, and displaced hundreds of evacuees. (Photo: Taken at the Smithville Airport facing west towards Bastrop)

Early reports are that a downed power line caused the blaze that officials with the Texas Forrest Service are calling the "Wilderness Ridge Fire".  

Portions of highway 71, both on the east and on the west side of the fire were shut down as traffic was re-routed for motorists traveling between Smithville and Austin.

Fire fighting crews and equipment were brought in from all over the state to help battle the fire. Helicopters and planes worked with dozers and fire trucks to try to keep the fire from jumping over the Colorado River.

Firefighters will continue to battle against high winds, which have hampered their efforts to gain total control of the blaze through out the day

As the sunset officials had estimated that the fire was approximately 40 percent contained.