Tree branch falls on power lines, sparks Penman Road house fire, JFRD says

Nor’easter brings wind, rain to Jacksonville beaches

A tree branch fell on power lines on Friday afternoon, causing a fire at a home on Penman Road, according to the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department.

It happened as a nor’easter brought wind and rain to the area.

Crews responded about 2:20 p.m. to the fire in Neptune Beach, and JFRD announced just over an hour later that the fire was under control.

JFRD thanked Beaches Energy for cutting the power quickly, ensuring the safety of the firefighters at the scene.

Nearby in Jacksonville Beach, palm trees swayed as the winds got up to 30 mph by 2 p.m.

“It’s very windy, and the sand is blowing when you get down toward the beach,” said beachgoer Frances Adams.

Large, frothy waves slammed the Jacksonville Beach Pier.

“I came to visit my sister from Ohio,” said beachgoer Jaime McCullough, who was taking a stroll. “I have to go to the beach while I’m here, so I bought a raincoat and here I am.”

Jacksonville Beach officials said they are not taking any special precautions for the weather, but emergency responders are stressing that people do not go into the water because the conditions are so rough.

“Looks like an inside weekend. Watch some football, maybe make some chili,” said Parker Kelley, who stopped by to check out the waves.

The tide is expected to be its highest Saturday morning.


About the Author:

Corley Peel is a Texas native and Texas Tech graduate who covered big stories in Joplin, Missouri, Tulsa, Oklahoma and Jacksonville, Florida before returning to the Lone Star State. When not reporting, Corley enjoys hot yoga, Tech Football, and finding the best tacos in town.