Interlachen, Florida, February 2, 2026
A significant brush fire near Interlachen, Florida, has been successfully contained. Evacuation orders and road closures were lifted following the prompt response from firefighting crews. The fire, which started on January 31, grew to approximately 314 acres but is now 100% contained. Local authorities have reopened all affected roads, allowing residents to return to their homes and resume normal activities in the area.
Putnam County, Florida
Brush Fire Near Interlachen Fully Contained; Evacuations and Road Closures Lifted
Interlachen, Florida – A significant brush fire near Interlachen, Florida, has been fully contained, leading to the lifting of all evacuation orders and road closures. The fire, which began on January 31, 2026, prompted authorities to evacuate residents and close roads due to heavy smoke and zero visibility in parts of the area. As of February 1, 2026, the Florida Forest Service reported that the fire was approximately 75% contained and had grown to approximately 314 acres. Crews worked diligently to reinforce containment lines, monitor for hot spots, and conduct mop-up operations along the fire’s edge. The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office announced that Keuka Road had reopened, and all road closures were discontinued. Residents are now allowed to return to their homes, and normal activities have resumed in the affected areas.
Fire Details and Response Efforts
The brush fire ignited on January 31, 2026, near Keuka Road in Interlachen. High winds contributed to the rapid spread of the flames, creating challenging conditions for firefighting crews. The Florida Forest Service, in coordination with Putnam County Fire Rescue, responded promptly to the situation. Evacuation orders were issued for residents between Munich Avenue, Madrid Avenue, and Brussels Avenue, and roads were closed from Madrid Avenue and Keuka South past Lake Como Circle. The heavy smoke from the blaze caused zero visibility in parts of the area, prompting authorities to urge residents to evacuate quickly and safely. Firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the fire, and their efforts were successful in bringing the situation under control. As of February 1, 2026, the fire was 75% contained, and all evacuation orders and road closures were lifted. Crews remained on scene to reinforce containment lines, monitor for hot spots, and conduct mop-up operations along the fire’s edge. The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office announced that Keuka Road had reopened, and all road closures were discontinued. Residents are now allowed to return to their homes, and normal activities have resumed in the affected areas.
Background on Brush Fires in Florida
Brush fires are a common occurrence in Florida, especially during periods of dry weather and high winds. These fires can spread rapidly, posing significant risks to communities and natural resources. The Florida Forest Service and local fire departments regularly conduct training and preparedness exercises to ensure a swift and effective response to such incidents. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about fire safety measures and adhere to local guidelines to prevent the occurrence and spread of brush fires. In the aftermath of this incident, authorities are reviewing their response strategies to enhance future preparedness and response efforts.
FAQ
What caused the brush fire near Interlachen, Florida?
The exact cause of the brush fire near Interlachen, Florida, which began on January 31, 2026, is under investigation. High winds contributed to the rapid spread of the flames, creating challenging conditions for firefighting crews. The Florida Forest Service, in coordination with Putnam County Fire Rescue, responded promptly to the situation. Evacuation orders were issued for residents between Munich Avenue, Madrid Avenue, and Brussels Avenue, and roads were closed from Madrid Avenue and Keuka South past Lake Como Circle. The heavy smoke from the blaze caused zero visibility in parts of the area, prompting authorities to urge residents to evacuate quickly and safely. Firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the fire, and their efforts were successful in bringing the situation under control. As of February 1, 2026, the fire was 75% contained, and all evacuation orders and road closures were lifted. Crews remained on scene to reinforce containment lines, monitor for hot spots, and conduct mop-up operations along the fire’s edge. The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office announced that Keuka Road had reopened, and all road closures were discontinued. Residents are now allowed to return to their homes, and normal activities have resumed in the affected areas.
How can residents stay informed about fire safety measures in Florida?
Residents can stay informed about fire safety measures in Florida by regularly checking updates from the Florida Forest Service and local fire departments. These agencies provide information on fire safety guidelines, burn bans, and preparedness tips. Additionally, residents should adhere to local guidelines to prevent the occurrence and spread of brush fires. In the aftermath of this incident, authorities are reviewing their response strategies to enhance future preparedness and response efforts.
Key Features of the Brush Fire Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Interlachen, Florida |
| Start Date | January 31, 2026 |
| Containment Status | 75% contained as of February 1, 2026 |
| Evacuation Orders | Issued for residents between Munich Avenue, Madrid Avenue, and Brussels Avenue |
| Road Closures | Keuka Road and surrounding areas closed; reopened as of February 1, 2026 |
| Fire Size | Approximately 314 acres |
| Response Agencies | Florida Forest Service, Putnam County Fire Rescue, Putnam County Sheriff’s Office |
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