Federal fire officials are warning residents and visitors that wildfire danger across the Ocala National Forest remains “High to Very High” as extreme drought conditions persist throughout the region.
In a bulletin released on Thursday morning, the U.S. Forest Service explained that multiple hard freezes this past winter have dried out available fuels. When combined with ongoing dry and windy conditions, these factors have created a volatile environment for potential wildfires.
The Forest Service has increased its wildfire response by staffing to combat the elevated risk. The group currently employs seven wildland engines, four fire UTVs, five dozers, one Type 2 (medium) helicopter, and one Type 1 (heavy) helicopter.
Firefighters have stayed active over the past week, responding to three wildfires. These include the 46-acre Gopher Fire located east of Lake Catherine, the 7.9-acre Gull Fire northeast of the Ocala Shooting Range, and the 0.1-acre Conner Fire near the Lacota community.
To ensure a rapid response to new ignitions, officials have extended the mutual aid response radius to 10 miles outside the forest boundary.
There are currently no active or planned prescribed burns in the forest, and the public is asked to report any smoke sightings immediately to 911.
This week, daytime temperatures are expected to remain in the mid-to-high 80s for most of the coming week. While there is a 50% chance of showers on Thursday, Sunday, and Monday, the overall drought remains a primary concern.
Motorists traveling through the State Road 40 and State Road 19 corridors should expect heavy traffic due to springtime tourism.
While most sites remain open, the Forest Service announced that the Delancy Loops OHV Trailhead along SR-19 and motorized trails in the northeast portion of the forest will officially reopen to the public on Friday, April 3. These areas had been temporarily closed due to timber sale operations.
Officials warn that smoke from any new wildfires could mix with overnight and early morning fog, significantly reducing visibility. Drivers are encouraged to monitor FL511.com for real-time road closures and report hazards to the Florida Highway Patrol by dialing *FHP (*347).