A wildfire in Gillespie County that prompted evacuations Saturday grew to more than 8,600 acres by the evening, according to an update from the Texas A&M Forest Service.

The Crabapple Fire has put most parts of Central and South Texas under a "Red Flag Warning" as strong gusts of wind move throughout the region, breeding favorable fire conditions. Smoke billowing out of the blaze has been seen as far east as Bee Cave, Austin and Bastrop.

A wildfire in Gillespie County that prompted evacuations Saturday grew to more than 8,600 acres by the evening, according to an update from the Texas A&M Forest Service. READ MORE:

Crews are responding to an 8600-acre wildfire near Fredericksburg and is currently 40% contained. Officials said the Crabapple fire started near 8700 Lower Crabapple Rd. Fredericksburg Fire is directing evacuees to a shelter at Zion Lutheran Church at 426 West Main St.