Picayune Strand fire raises concerns for FC Naples, pickleball events

NAPLES, Fla. (WINK) — A brush fire in the Picayune Strand State Forest has burned more than 1,700 acres and is 60% contained.

Multiple fire departments are working together to contain the blaze. North Collier Fire, Marco Island, Big Cypress and Greater Naples Fire are all working together to fight the fire, with the Florida Forest Service leading the charge.

The Florida Forest Service says they have 30 personnel and 75 resources to battle the fire, including two air tankers and two helicopters. The helicopters have dropped water 250 times onto the fire.

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1,733-acre brush fire reported in Picayune Strand State Forest, 70% containment

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. (WINK) — Florida Forestry and Greater Naples Fire are on scene, combating a 1,733-acre brush fire at the Picayune Strand State Forest.

At last check, the north side of the fire is largely under control, with crews securing hotspots on the south side. Jesse Lavender with the Florida Forest Service tells WINK News that crews are doing everything they can to protect people's homes.

"We worked all night long to protect those structures that were located closest to the fire," Lavender said. "I personally saw several of them just a few hours ago. Everything's looking good right now, but again, conditions can change."

Around 10 a.m. the previous day, officials lifted evacuation orders, allowing people back into their homes in the Forest Glen community. However, several communities in the area still need to be on high alert.

Those communities are:

• Sun Retreat
• Panther Walk RV Resort
• Caymas
• Seven Shores
• Sapphire Cove
• Milano Lakes
• Hammock Park Apartments
• Azure

The fire's proximity to major sporting events has raised concerns about air quality. FC Naples is scheduled to face Orlando City in the U.S. Open Cup at Paradise Sports Complex, their first-ever match against an MLS opponent. Tickets to the game are already sold out.

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FC Naples hosts first-ever MLS opponent in U.S. Open Cup Wednesday night

NAPLES, Fla. (WINK) — FC Naples turns its attention to the biggest match in club history.

FC Naples has been carefully monitoring the Picayune Strand wildfire and is working closely with the Collier County Sheriff's Office and Collier County staff to monitor the air quality and weather conditions at the stadium. The team says the safety of its team and fans is its top priority, and if conditions change, it will issue updates as necessary.

The U.S. Open Pickleball Championships is also taking place this week at East Naples Community Park, bringing together thousands of athletes and fans from around the world. The head of public relations for the U.S. Open Pickleball Championship says they haven't been affected so far, but are on alert with a plan. The tournament runs until Saturday.

WINK News will continue to monitor the fire's progression and any evacuation orders. You can click here for the latest updates from the Florida Forest Service.