News Release

Phase One of Sandy Wildfire Evacuation Plan Initiated

Map of Sandy Fire with Closures

NPS Map

News Release Date: May 4, 2023

Contact: Riki Hoopes, 786-886-9342

OCHOPEE, FL – Active fire behavior was observed today on the Sandy Fire as it continued to grow.

Phase One of the Sandy Wildfire Evacuation Plan has been initiated and residents within the areas of concern have been notified of potential fire impacts in the coming days. Residents in the impending evacuation zone have been advised to prepare their home and themselves for potential evacuations.

Fire managers will continue to monitor fire behavior, initiating a secondary phase of the evacuation plan if fire continues to move towards homes. The secondary phase includes ensuring bags are packed and ready to go and encourages those with preexisting health conditions to leave. The final phase of evacuation could occur when fire threat is imminent at which point all residents will be advised to leave.

Crews continued to focus efforts on structure protection and suppression burn out operations along the northeast and northwest flanks today, working to protect and secure private structures in the area. Operations are expected to continue into the night as firefighters take advantage of cooler temperatures and higher relative humidity. The fire was mapped at 3,282 acres late Thursday afternoon. 

An incoming cold front is expected to bring increasingly dry conditions and a change in wind direction, causing potential smoke impacts to US41 as early as Friday morning. Travelers are urged to use caution when in the area.

Closures remain in effect west of 11 Mile Road, north of US41, east of Monument Trail, and south of Mud Lake, Little Deer, Oasis Trail and Lost Dog to ensure the safety of the public and allow the firefighters to work without impediment.