INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, Fla. – Crews continued to work on the brush fire in Indian River County throughout the weekend, bringing its containment up to 60% and making “great progress,” according to the Florida Forest Service.
Officials provided an updated Sunday before 1 p.m. that the fire was estimated at 1,150 acres, updating it from the initial estimate of 1,600 due to GPS mapping.
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The FFS warned drivers on Interstate 95 and County Road 512 that there could be reduced visibility due to smoke.
No threats/no hazards. There is fire within a swamp on the west side of the fire. The fire within the swamp will likely continue to burn for an extended period. Drivers on I-95 and CR 512 are cautioned to the possibility of reduced visibility on the roadways due to smoke.
— FFS Okeechobee (@FFS_Okeechobee) May 23, 2021
The fire broke out around 8 a.m. at the St. Sebastian Buffer Preserve in Indian River and was completely uncontained as of 2:30 p.m. before reaching 40% containment Friday evening.
“This is the biggest fire we’ve seen this year in (Indian River County) and we’ll be working well into the night to contain it,” said a Florida Forest Service representative, who added that high winds are a concern because embers could spread and spark another fire.
The forest service had 10 dozers and one helicopter assisting county fire crews and other agency crews Friday evening.
High fire danger is a concern Saturday as winds continue to be gusty in Central Florida.
The Tree Frog Fire shut down Interstate 95 in Brevard County for most of Friday as smoke was blowing toward the interstate. As of 5:45 p.m. lanes in both directions near the Palm Bay Road exit had reopened in Brevard County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
A voluntary evacuation notice was lifted for Fellsmere residents just before 8 p.m. Friday.
This is a developing story. Check back with News 6 for the latest updates.
Final wildfire update There are still signs of fire along the interstate and in the two southern quadrants of the St. Sebastian Buffer Preserve. IRFD will remain on scene throughout the night put out hot spots and prevent further spreading. The voluntary evacuation order has been lifted.
Posted by Fellsmere Police Department on Friday, May 21, 2021