Clay-Putnam wildfire now 65% contained

Firefighters continue to battle a wildfire burning along the southern Clay County and northern Putnam County line, with the fire now 65% contained and spanning 4,413 acres, according to Clay County Fire Rescue.

The Florida Forest Service said overnight crews focused suppression efforts on the fire’s southern end, where the most activity has been observed.

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“Overnight crews conducted controlled burnout operations to eliminate any unburned fuels within the containment lines, reducing the possibility of a restart,” the Forest Service said in a statement.

Those same tactics are expected to continue through the day. Crews will keep searching for and eliminating unburned areas, hot spots and active flame.

Evacuations, road closures

Some residents forced to evacuate can now return home. The Clay County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that residents from Varney Road and Woodard Lane have been cleared to return.

No new voluntary evacuations have been issued, but returning residents are urged to monitor their homes closely.

No road closures are currently in effect in Clay County due to the fire.

The fire, known as the Railroad Fire, remains south of Green Cove Springs along Sweat Road and stretches east of Highway 17 to the county line. It apparently began with a spark from a passing train.

Wildfire air quality

Smoke continues to be a concern for people in and around the fire area. The Florida Forest Service is warning residents to use caution if traveling nearby.

Residents with respiratory issues are urged to stay indoors and use air conditioning set to recirculate — especially while driving through affected areas. Heavy smoke has been reported along area highways.

Air quality conditions can be monitored at www.airnow.gov.

Burn ban continues

A burn ban remains in effect across the area. No outdoor burning is permitted, with the exception of grilling.

Residents and recreationists are also reminded not to fly drones near the fire, as unmanned aircraft can interfere with firefighting operations. Boaters on the St. Johns River should also stay clear, as aircraft are actively using the river to collect water for fire suppression.

A call center is open through Friday for residents with questions or needs. Those looking to support crews with meals can call 877-CLAY-EOC to coordinate. Donation collection at the fairgrounds has since closed.

Residents can also take steps to protect their homes by maintaining a 30-foot defensible space around their property. Additional wildfire readiness resources are available at www.bewildfirereadyfl.com.

To sign up for local emergency alerts, go to alert.claycountygov.com or download the SaferWatch app at www.getsaferwatch.com.

This story was produced by News4Jax, a Jacksonville Today news partner.