MARION COUNTY, Fla. – According to a news release from the U.S. Forest Service, four brush fires were reported in the Ocala National Forest following a thunderstorm.
Officials posted on social media updating the public on the fires called “Eagle Fire,” “Hughes Fire,” “Bullbat Fire” and the Builderback Fire.”
Fire officials said the 4.5-acre Builderback Fire is north of Deerhaven Retreat Center ad is “low-moderate creeping” and smoldering.
According to the release, the estimated 2-acre Eagle Fire is burning in the area of Forest Road 11 and Forest Road 50.
Officials later posted an update saying that crews have “have placed dozer line around the entire perimeter” and forward progression has stopped.
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The release stated that the Hughes Fire was initially experiencing active growth but was later reported to be “under rainfall,” which diminished the fire’s activity. Officials did not specify the exact location of the brush fire.
The Bullbat Fire, covering two acres, was located off C.R. 314 near the gas compression station. Firefighters responded to the scene, and a helicopter carried out four water drops, which “significantly reduced fire behavior.” Additionally, officials mentioned that a dozer is on the scene, working to create a line around the fire.
“More thunderstorms are moving through the area with the possibility of more lightning. Please report smoke sightings to 911 and drive accordingly. Report any visibility issues on the roads to *347 (*FHP),” the release concluded.
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