Three large wildfires in the Florida Panhandle continued to rage on Monday, forcing evacuations of thousands of people, and first responders to work around the clock to contain the flames.
There are 171 wildfires burning more than 15,000 acres throughout the state, the Florida Forest Service reported Monday.
Efforts are being coordinated under the name Chipola Complex, said the agency. When two or more wildfires are burning close together in the same area, they are often called a “complex” and attacked by firefighters under a unified command.
What’s causing all the destruction?
Weather experts point to Hurricane Michael in October 2018, which left behind 72 million tons of dead trees. The dangerous mix of debris and high winds are feeding the fires.
State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis toured the area in Bay County over the weekend, showing the devastation.
“Terrible scene here as several homes have been destroyed by this awful fire,” he said on Twitter. “Thankful these residents got out unharmed. Homeowners impacted should immediately contact their insurance company to get started on the claims process as soon as possible. Pray for these Floridians.”
Here are most recent updates from the forest service:
Bertha Swamp Road Fire
This blaze, which Gov. Ron DeSantis referred to as “a big boy,” is now estimated at 12,000 acres and containment is at 10 percent. The fire has shown “extreme activity” for two days as steady winds pushed the fire through thick, dry, and dead trees and vegetation left behind from Michael.
Winds pushed Bertha from its origin in Gulf County on Friday, into Calhoun County and then Bay County on Saturday. Monday is estimated to bring similar winds but an increase in humidity and cloud cover could help reduce intensity. A team of heavy bulldozers is focusing on building firelines and moving large volumes of debris.
Adkins Avenue Fire
Covering 841 acres, this is 40 percent contained. Early acreage estimates were hampered by “smoky conditions and intense fire activity,” but firefighters were able to conduct better mapping, said the forest service.
Star Avenue Fire
This most recent 250-acre blaze ignited Sunday and forced the evacuation of the Clifford Chester Sims State Veterans Nursing Home. It’s estimated at at 45 percent containment.
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