Fast moving brush threatens homes

Photo by Scott LaPradeHeavy smoke from a distance

Photo by Scott LaPradeFire running up trees

Photo by Scott LaPradeFf attacking the fire from the backyard of a home

Photo by Scott LaPradeHelicopter water drops

Photo by Scott LaPradeForestry Bulldozer at work
Just after 1500 hrs Hernando County Fire and Rescue were called out to a brush fire in the area of US 19 and SR 52. The fire was traveling behind some commercial buildings moving from west to east. The extremely dry conditions made it difficult to get around the edge to slow it down. The fire was moving in the direction of homes located on Moongate Rd. As crews were doing their best to keep the fire and embers from getting to the residents and all the outside belongings. Residents were in their backyard using what they could from their home water hoses to keep water on the roofs and automobiles in front of the home. Crews from the Florida Forest Service’s Withlacoochee Forestry Center are assisting with tractors to help contain the blaze that officials estimated the fire at 20-25 acres. An HCFR helicopter has been making water drops over the fire as they work to slow the spread. Companies remained on the scene for hours checking on any hotspots that might flare up.