Wildfire activity surged across Florida last week, with 82 active blazes burning nearly 7,800 acres amid ongoing drought conditions that have left soils extremely dry.
The Florida Forest Service is increasing patrols to detect fires early. This past Wednesday, crews quickly responded to a small brush fire near Cantonment in Escambia County after spotting it during patrols.
In Collier County, the Picayune Strand State Forest fire — which had burned about 1,700 acres — was 70% contained as of Friday while firefighters continued suppression efforts. The blaze, which began earlier in the week, prompted temporary evacuations and heightened concerns in nearby neighborhoods.
“It feels unnerving, but I am reassured by the response that we had,” said Deborah Houk, a resident near the fire. She described seeing police cars stationed in her area and helicopters delivering water drops when she returned home with her children Thursday.
The Florida Forest Service is leading statewide firefighting efforts. Officials continue to monitor drought conditions, which have fueled the elevated fire activity this spring.
No structures were reported damaged in the incidents mentioned, but residents are urged to remain vigilant. Updates on active wildfires are available through the Florida Forest Service.
