Wildfire — Alachua, Florida

2012-01-29 · Alachua, Florida

Event narrative

Very dense fog from the Paynes Prairie wildfire produced zero visibility across Interstate 75 and Highway 441 during the early morning hours. A major car pile-up began around 3:45 am, with numerous vehicles involved including 6 tractor-trailers and at least a dozen passenger vehicles. Crashed extended for about a mile. Some vehicles burst into flames and explosions. At least 10 people were killed, with at least 18 taken to the hospital. The fire had burned about 62 acres in the prairie. Interstate 75 remained closed through much of Sunday because parts of the road were melted due to the vehicle fires.

Wider weather episode

A 62 acre wildfire developed in Paines Prairie which is bisected by Interstate 75 south of Gainesville. The Prairie is also close to Highway 441, which runs south of Gainesville as well. The wildfire produced very dense smoke, which blanketed the Interstate and Highway 441 throughout the night. Poor visibilities from the smoke caused numerous auto accidents, at least 18 injuries, and 10 fatalities.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 356780. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.