A rapidly spreading wildfire has forced mandatory evacuations in Walton County as firefighters battle the blaze in difficult conditions.

More than 500 homes are under evacuation orders as the fire has burned approximately 1,200 acres.

The Fire

The wildfire started around 11:00 AM near Highway 331 North in Walton County, according to Florida Forest Service.

Strong winds and dry conditions have fueled rapid spread.

“This is a very active, fast-moving fire,” said Florida Forest Service spokesperson Jennifer Smith. “We’re asking residents in evacuation zones to leave immediately.”

Evacuations

Mandatory evacuations ordered for: – Areas north of Highway 20 – East of Highway 331 – West of County Road 393 – Approximately 500-700 homes affected

Residents should evacuate immediately.

Evacuation Shelter

Red Cross has opened an evacuation shelter: – Location: Walton County Fairgrounds, 1295 Highway 90, DeFuniak Springs – Open now: Accepting evacuees – Pet-friendly: Pets welcome with proper carriers/leashes – Services: Food, water, cots, medical assistance

Fire Details

Current status: – Size: Approximately 1,200 acres (growing) – Containment: 0% – Structures threatened: 500-700 homes – Cause: Under investigation – Conditions: High winds, low humidity, dry vegetation

Response

Firefighting resources deployed: – Florida Forest Service crews – Local fire departments – Wildfire suppression aircraft – Bulldozers creating firebreaks – Additional resources requested

“We have significant resources on scene, but conditions are challenging,” Smith said.

Road Closures

Roads closed due to fire: – Highway 331 North from Highway 20 to County Road 280 – County Road 393 between Highway 20 and Highway 90 – Multiple local roads in fire area

Avoid the area and follow detour signs.

Weather Conditions

Challenging fire weather: – Winds: 15-20 mph with gusts to 30 mph – Humidity: 25-30% (very low) – Temperature: 78°F – No rain in forecast for 48 hours

National Weather Service has issued Red Flag Warning for fire danger.

Air Quality

Smoke affecting air quality: – Visible smoke plume for miles – Air quality alerts for Walton and surrounding counties – Residents advised to stay indoors if possible – Close windows and doors – Avoid outdoor activities

What Residents Should Do

If in evacuation zone: – Leave immediately – Take medications, important documents, valuables – Bring pets and pet supplies – Turn off gas, but leave electricity on for firefighters – Close all windows and doors – Go to evacuation shelter or stay with family/friends outside area

If near fire area: – Monitor local news and alerts – Be prepared to evacuate – Have go-bag ready – Keep vehicle fueled – Stay informed

Cause

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Florida Forest Service is investigating all possible causes.

Historical Context

The Panhandle is experiencing drought conditions: – Below-normal rainfall for past 60 days – Vegetation extremely dry – High fire danger across region – Multiple wildfires burning in Florida

Public Information

For updates: – Walton County Emergency Management: (850) 892-8065 – Florida Forest Service: (850) 681-5875 – Local news and emergency alerts – Monitor social media for official updates

Governor’s Response

Governor Ron DeSantis is monitoring the situation.

“We’re mobilizing all available resources to fight this fire and protect residents,” DeSantis said.

Updates

This is a developing situation. Check back for updates as firefighters battle the blaze.