298-acre brush fire burns at Picayune Strand State Forest in Collier County, 35% containment

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. (WINK) — Collier County fire crews are responding to a 298-acre brush fire located at the Picayune Strand State Forest in Collier County.

The Florida Forest Service, Greater Naples Fire Rescue crews and the Collier County Strike Team are currently battling the Hacienda Fire, located east of the Azure Community.

Jesse Lavender, a mitigation specialist for the Florida Forest Service, confirmed the fire to WINK News.

According to the Greater Naples Fire Department, voluntary evacuations have been issued for surrounding communities. The Max Hasse Community Center has been established as a safe haven for evacuees as firefighters work to contain the fire.

The 298-acre fire was first reported to WINK News around 1:30 p.m. on Monday. Currently, the fire is at 35% containment.

This fire is just south of where the previous Picayune Strand State Forest wildfire occurred just last month.

RELATED: WINK News goes into the Picayune Strand State Forest as crews work to contain brush fire

WINK News reporters Annalise Iraola, Bridget Bruchalski and Maddie Herron are on their way to the location to find out the latest information.