On Sunday evening, voluntary evacuations were initiated after a train reportedly emitted sparks, igniting a fire near the railroad tracks just south of Green Cove Springs.
In CLAY COUNTY, Fla., emergency teams are dealing with a substantial fire, which local officials believe was sparked by a train. As a result, some residents are being asked to voluntarily evacuate, as confirmed by Clay County Fire Rescue.
The fire, known as the Crews Road fire, is located alongside the train tracks south of Green Cove Springs and Clarkes Creek, specifically near County Road 209 S and Highway 17 S. According to the Florida Forest Service, it encompasses 1,700 acres, although several areas might have caught fire independently.
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“It seems that sparks from a train have triggered these fires,” stated the Clay County Fire Rescue in a social media update on Sunday afternoon. “Please avoid the area if possible and exercise caution when driving due to heavy smoke.”
Clay County’s spokesperson, Laura Christmas, indicated that managing the fire will likely require a prolonged effort, and the railroad in the area has been shut down. Both County Road 209 S and Decoy Road remained entirely closed along Highway 17 as of Sunday night.
Residents near Varney Road and Woodward Lane are being encouraged to voluntarily evacuate to Shiloh Baptist Church on County Road 226 for safety.
“We’ve advised over 20 residents to be able to leave. Some of have chosen to do so, some of not. In a worst-case scenario, we’ll advise a general evacuation,” Clay County Fire Chief Lorin Mock said.
“15 firefighting tractor-plow units continue to create and improve firebreak contingency lines around the fire, while engine crews patrol the perimeter. Firefighters will be actively engaged throughout the evening. All air operations have been completed for the day. Smoke will be a concern through the night and into tomorrow. Please avoid the area if possible,” the Florida Forest Service – Jacksonville District said in an update Sunday night.
South of the Crews Road fire, in Putnam County, crews are battling another large fire north of Bostwick. Both fires are impacting conditions along the county line, but have not merged into one.
Unincorporated Clay County is under a burn ban due to severe fire risks linked to ongoing drought conditions. No outdoor burning is permitted, including yard debris and campfires. Violations are a second-degree misdemeanor.
CCFR is asking residents to help prevent additional fires by taking certain precautions, like keeping yards clean of dry leaves, properly disposing of cigarettes and avoiding parking or driving over dry grass.
This is a developing story.
