Wildfire — Inland Nassau, Florida

2017-03-22 · Inland Nassau, Florida

Event narrative

The wildfire broke out around 14:20 along Willis Lane in western Nassau County due to an illegal paper burn. Evacuations were ordered and 150 residents left. The fire was driven south through residential neighborhoods and horse farms. There were 2 homes destroyed and 8 that suffered damage from the fire. The fire burned about 250 acres by the evening of the start day. On March 23, the fire burned about 400 acres and was at 50% containment. By March 23, the fire was at 65% containment and County Road 119 remained closed as well as parts of County Road 121. A county shelter was opened. By March 26, the evacuation order was lifted. As of March 27, the fire burned 750 acres and was at 95% containment.

Wider weather episode

Long term rainfall deficits combined with above normal warmth and an early spring bloom contributed to dry fuels and favorable conditions for wildfires.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 680217. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.