High fire danger across Gulf Coast as dry, windy conditions persist

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. —

Fire crews are continuing to monitor hot spots in the Picayune Strand State Forest after a wildfire burned more than 1,700 acres, as officials warn of high fire danger across the Gulf Coast this week.

The fire is now about 95% contained, according to the Florida Forest Service, but crews remain on scene watching for any flare-ups.

"Low humidity, high winds … and we have a lot of dry fuels," said mitigation specialist Jesse Lavender. "It’s super dry across the entire Southwest Florida area."

Those conditions are expected to continue over the next several days, increasing the risk for new fires.

Gulf Coast News meteorologist Sara Blue said a combination of dry air and gusty winds is driving the elevated fire danger.

"The gusty winds can pick up a spark and throw it downwind … and that can help fires spread very, very quickly," Blue said.

The windy conditions are being fueled in part by a cold front moving through the region. While some rain is expected in Collier County, it is not expected to significantly improve drought conditions.

Officials say it would take much more consistent rainfall to make a difference.

In the meantime, fire crews are urging residents to take precautions to prevent fires from starting in the first place.

That includes avoiding parking vehicles on dry grass, limiting the use of outdoor equipment, and properly disposing of cigarettes.

"Do not start any fires outdoors," Lavender said.

The Florida Forest Service is also working on a smaller wildfire deeper in the Everglades near Alligator Alcatraz, the detention facility, but officials say it's not currently threatening any structures.

Authorities are reminding people that wildfire risk is not limited to remote areas and that even a small spark can quickly turn into a dangerous situation. For more information on wildfire safety, click here.

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