They also issued mandatory evacuation orders. The fire has now spread to 800 acres, and continues to spread northward and northeastward.
Around 600 homes were evacuated by Friday evening, according to the Florida Forest Service . According to the Bay County Sheriff’s Office , at least two homes were set on fire by the fire. “Multiple other structures” are still in danger.
Multiple agencies from Bay County and other counties are responding to the flames. According to the Florida Forest Service, more than a dozen tractors are already on the ground.
Mandatory evacuations are in effect for those living along Transmitter Road and Star Avenue, between Highway 231 & Highway 98. According to the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, Hiland Park Baptist Church has provided an emergency shelter for anyone who needs to evacuate.
Friday morning was a warning from the Florida Forest Service that there is an elevated state fire danger and “critically low” humidity for this weekend.
The state forest service stated on Twitter that wildfires could have a devastating effect on communities. There is very little warning, unlike hurricanes. Do not wait for wildfire to strike.
