CLAY COUNTY, Fla. – The Railroad Fire in Clay County is now holding at 4,406 acres with 60% containment, according to an update released Thursday morning. The fire is the result of two wildfires merging into what the Florida Forest Service is calling an “unpredictable” blaze.
The Railroad Fire formed when the Crews Road Fire in Clay County and the Railroad Complex Fire in Putnam County merged.
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Officials say ground crews have continued making progress on fire break lines, structure protection and reducing hazardous vegetation — also known as fuel — between break lines. Air operations are expected to be sustained throughout the day, with four scoopers continuing to make water drops to target hot spots and slow fire progression.
Where the fire stands
Clay County Fire Rescue says the fire continues to remain south of Green Cove Springs at Sweat Road and east of Highway 17 to the county line. No roads in Clay County are currently closed as a result of the fire.
Residents and visitors in the area can expect smoke. Officials are urging caution as crews continue to improve lines, conduct mop-up tactics — which involve extinguishing remaining embers and preventing re-ignition — and provide structure protection as needed.
“If you’re in the area, please use caution as crews will continue to improve lines and conduct mop-up tactics along with structure protection as needed throughout the day,” officials said.
Evacuations
There are no new voluntary evacuations in place. However, residents on Varney Road and Woodard Lane remain under a voluntary evacuation order, and officials have not yet deemed it safe for those residents to return.
Officials are encouraging residents to visit BeWildFireReadyFL.com to learn more about wildfire readiness.