Extremely dry weather gripping much of Central Florida continues to elevate wildfire dangers with officials in Marion and Lake County stressing that a mandatory burn ban remains firmly in place as the region grapples with low humidity, windy conditions and vegetation parched by recent freezes.

Marion County Fire Rescue warned residents that even minor ignition sources such as a carelessly discarded cigarette, sparks from dragging trailer chains, unattended cooking equipment or tools generating sparks could rapidly ignite dry grass and brush. The county’s mandatory burn ban, enacted Feb. 10 after an initial voluntary phase, prohibits all outdoor burning except for attended outdoor cookers or grills and certain permitted activities like approved land-clearing operations or authorized fireworks displays. The ban is set to remain through Feb. 17 unless conditions improve.

“Fires can spread rapidly during dry conditions, putting homes, property, wildlife, and lives at risk,” Marion County Fire Rescue stated in a public alert.

Authorities urged proper disposal of smoking materials and responsible use of spark-producing equipment. Anyone spotting smoke or flames is instructed to call 911 immediately.

The warning follows a pattern of heightened fire activity across the area, driven by prolonged drought-like conditions exacerbated by below-freezing temperatures that have killed off vegetation, leaving behind highly flammable dry fuel.

On Tuesday, a fast-moving brush fire in Lake County gave residents a big scare. Crews from Lake County Fire Rescue, Eustis Fire Department, Mount Dora Fire Department and the Florida Forest Service’s Withlacoochee Forestry Center responded around 12:02 p.m. to a blaze near CR 44A in Eustis, off St. Johns Lane. The fire threatened nearby structures, prompting evacuations in the area and a temporary closure of the roadway. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office assisted with drone operations to monitor the fire’s movement and provide situational awareness.

The incident scorched approximately 94 acres before being declared 100% contained later that day. No structures were reported damaged, but officials described it as a stark reminder of the current hazards.

Wildfires are no joke, fire officials emphasized, noting that while the Eustis fire was quickly controlled through multi-agency coordination, uncontrolled blazes can escalate rapidly under these conditions. Residents were again urged to refrain from any burning and to report fires immediately.

Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed Executive Order 26-33 to provide emergency support for Florida’s agricultural industry as farmers face severe winter weather and ongoing drought conditions. According to recent reports, 95 percent of the state is under a moderate drought as of Feb. 10. DeSantis announced the order Tuesday on X, writing, “Today’s action underscores our commitment to supporting our farmers during these tough times.”

Similar burn bans and elevated fire risks are affecting multiple Central Florida counties, including Brevard, Polk and Sumter, as well as parts of South and North Florida, according to the Florida Forest Service. Statewide drought indicators remain concerning, with little significant rainfall in recent forecasts.

Officials across our region continue to call for community vigilance to prevent additional incidents as dry weather persists.

“Together, we can help keep our communities safe,” Marion County Fire Rescue says.

Photos shared from Lake County Fire Rescue and Marion County Firefighters