Jacksonville, Florida – Fire crews across inland northeast Florida are bracing for rapidly spreading wildfires by mid-afternoon Sunday as humidity drops to 25 percent and winds strengthen, creating conditions that can turn a spark into a fast-moving blaze within minutes.
According to the National Weather Service in Jacksonville, a Red Flag Warning is in effect from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday for areas between the I-75 and I-95 corridors. Southwest to west winds around 15 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph, will combine with temperatures reaching 87 degrees and drought-stricken vegetation.
Counties impacted include Baker, Bradford, Clay, Duval, Alachua, Marion, Columbia, Flagler, Nassau, Putnam, and St. Johns. Communities west of Jacksonville, including Lake City, Palatka, and Gainesville’s eastern areas, face the highest risk where fuels are driest.
Officials warn that any outdoor burning could quickly become uncontrollable. Residents should avoid using grills on dry grass, postpone debris burning, and secure trailer chains that could spark along roadways like I-10 and U.S. 301.
Power crews and emergency managers are also on alert as shifting winds can push flames toward homes and roadways with little warning.
The threat eases after sunset, but dry conditions will linger. Additional advisories could be issued if similar patterns continue into early next week.
