UPDATE: Florida Forest Service Battling 650-acre #YellowBluffFire in Jacksonville

Tallahassee, Fla. — The Florida Forest Service continues battling a 650-acre wildfire outside Jacksonville, and is encouraging motorists and residents to exercise caution in the area. 

As of 12 p.m. ET, the fire is estimated at 650 acres and 55 percent contained; at 12 p.m. yesterday, the fire was 450 acres and 30 percent contained. Significant progress has been made in reducing smoke in the area. No structures are threatened at this time.

Two separate wildfires broke out on Wednesday off U.S. 17 and Yellow Bluff Road near Jacksonville. The Florida Forest Service has deployed fixed wing aircraft, helicopters, 13 firefighting bulldozer crews, and 29 wildland firefighters to battle the blazes. Resources from the National Forest Service and the St. Johns River Water Management District have also been deployed.

At this time, I-95 remains in both directions per the Florida Highway Patrol. However, some lanes are currently closed due to emergency vehicles and personnel, and motorists are strongly encouraged to slow down and maintain awareness.

“These wildfires can build quickly and can be extremely dangerous, so residents in affected areas should continue to follow directions from state and local officials,” said Commissioner Nicole “Nikki” Fried, whose Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services includes the Florida Forest Service. “While I-95 remains open per the Florida Highway Patrol, all travelers should closely monitor the media for updates on safety and I-95’s status throughout Memorial Day weekend. We thank our brave Forest Service firefighters and our state and federal partners for working swiftly to control these wildfires.” 

See photos and video from the wildfire.

Media with additional questions should contact Florida Forest Service local mitigation specialist Annaleasa Winter at 904-705-3931. Updates may also be found on Twitter at @FFS_Jax and @FDACS.

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