Evacuations were lifted Wednesday for a 1,733-acre brush fire that continues to grow in the Picayune Strand State Forest south of I-75 in Collier County.
The fire is located in the Picayune Strand State Forest, south of I-75. This is all east of Forest Glen Golf & Country Club, south of the Alligator Alley toll plaza.
The Greater Naples Fire Rescue District and the North Collier Fire Rescue District are working with FFS to contain and extinguish the fire.
The Collier County Sheriff's Office asked the public to refrain from using drones in the area of the active brush fire, as it impedes the safety of the first responders and interferes with fire operations.
The fire is 1,733 acres and 70% contained as of the latest update from the Florida Forest Service, which was issued at 12:07 p.m. Wednesday.
The Florida Highway Patrol said there is smoke in the area near mile marker 98 on I-75.
The Greater Naples Fire Rescue District said FFS has additional dozers that have come in from Central Florida and should arrive in the morning as well.
As of 12 p.m, Wednesday, all evacuations have been lifted in the area, and residents can return to their homes.
The Collier County Sheriff's Office noted that there might be heavy traffic, especially near Collier Boulevard and Beck Boulevard.
CCSO asked the general public to avoid traveling in the area, and deputies will implement a safety checkpoint.
Since the fire started on Monday, multiple communities were evacuated, including residences along Stable Way, Newman Drive, Barton Gilba Drive, Benfield Road, and Le Buff Road. All residents can return to their homes.
The Florida Highway Patrol said troopers are monitoring the wildfire in the area of I-75 (Alligator Alley) in the vicinity of mile markers 95 to 100.
All I-75 lanes are open at this time, and drivers were advised to remain alert for any changing conditions.
FHP also said visibility can change within seconds with brush fire smoke in the area, and that drivers need to remember the following safety tips for driving in these conditions:
Winds are pushing westward, which could lead to smoky conditions along Collier Boulevard south of I-75, and drivers are advised to use caution in the area.
A Safe Haven for fire evacuees is open at the Golden Gate Community Center, at 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, for those affected by the Newman and Beck Boulevard Brush Fire.
This is the only shelter currently open, and this shelter is pet-friendly. Please bring all supplies with you to the shelter.
Items to consider:
Weapons and alcoholic beverages are not permitted.
For more information, call the Golden Gate Community Center Safe Haven at 239-252-4180.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
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