Here’s an update on the Salt Springs brush fire:
How large is the fire? 62-acres. At one point it was 100-acres. U.S. Forest Service officials said though the blaze has increased by 2-acres – from 60-acres to 62-acres – firefighters will continue to utilize existing control features and keep the fire in a footprint west of State Road 19 and south of SR-314, according to a Facebook post from forest service officials.
Forest officials said there maybe smoke in the area and ask motorists or anyone in the area seeing smoke to contact Florida Highway Patrol at *347 (*FHP).
What’s the location of the fire? Near the Shanty Pond Campground that’s just west of SR-19. It was discovered on May 15.
How many personnel and equipment are battling the fire? In the post, forest officials said there are more than 50 people; six engines; four helicopters; three dozers; and three UTVs.
What’s the temperature like this weekend? Forest officials say no rain is in the forecast, with temperatures in the 90s and winds between 17-20 mph. Though there has been rain recently, it isn’t enough to dampen fire risks, according to officials.
County officials in April announced a countywide voluntary burn ban because of the lack of rain.
Has the fire affected any closings? Yes, some portions of the Florida Scenic Trail is temporarily closed.
Contact Austin L. Miller at austin.miller@starbanner.com
This article originally appeared on Ocala Star-Banner: U.S. Forest Service gives update on Salt Springs fire
Reporting by Austin L. Miller, Ocala Star-Banner / Ocala Star-Banner
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
