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Sargent Fire Update: containment holds at 50% as smoke, overnight road closures continue

Smoke and fog keep overnight closures in place on Hwy 94/State Road 2 as crews reinforce containment lines and mop up hot spots.

Emergency Responders fight a wildfire near the Florida-Georgia line. (Florida Forest Service)

A wildfire burning near the Florida-Georgia line remains active but is holding steady in size and containment, according to an evening update from forestry officials.

The Sargent Fire is estimated at about 2,712 acres and is 50% contained, with crews continuing to strengthen containment lines and mop up hot spots.

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Latest conditions

Officials said trace rainfall has fallen in parts of the fire area and light rain remains in the forecast. While that moisture could help reduce fire activity, forestry officials cautioned it won’t be enough to extinguish the fire.

Crews worked through the day using heavy and medium dozers to build and reinforce containment lines—especially on the western side of the fire—and to continue mop-up operations near the perimeter.

A joint Incident Management Team from the Georgia Forestry Commission and the Florida Forest Service remains in command.

Smoke impacts and travel

Smoke will continue to impact nearby communities, officials said.

Drivers should use extra caution in smoky conditions:

  • Slow down
  • Use low beams
  • Treat it like fog

Road update

Officials said Georgia Highway 94 / Florida Highway 2 is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. but will have overnight closures due to reduced visibility from smoke and fog.

What’s next

Forecasters say winds could test containment lines along the southwest edge of the fire if rainfall remains limited.

Officials said no structures are threatened at this time.

How to get updates

  • Public information line: 850-206-2675
  • Fire safety information: BeWildfireReadyFL.com

Background

The fire initially was reported at roughly 4,000 acres before more accurate mapping put it closer to 2,700 acres, and officials reported it was 50% contained as of Thursday evening.