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Hernando County: ‘Shoal Line’ fire off Weeki Wachee spreading rapidly; Check map, evacuation details, videos
Level 3 evacuation ordered in Hernando County, FL, after a 125-acre brushfire near Shoal Line Blvd threatened homes, prompting evacuations in nearby areas.
Level 3 evacuation alert was issued in Hernando County, Florida, on Sunday afternoon after a brushfire broke out near the Shoal Line Boulevard in western Hernando County off the Weeki Wachee Preserve.
According to Watch Duty, the wildfire has spread over 125 acres, sparking evacuations in the areas of the east side of Shoal Line Boulevard, between Calienta Street and Osowaw Boulevard. Multiple structures are reportedly threatened.
In an update on Facebook, the Hernando County Fire Department said that they are now referring the fire as “Shoal Line Fire,” after the Shoal Line Boulevard near which the brush fire broke out.
Shoal Line Fire Map: Locations Affected
Here's the map of the Shoal Line fire near the Spring Hills Region of Hernando County, Florida. According to Watch Duty reporter Shannon Nazarenus, the Hernando County Fire Rescue is working to prevent structure damage, while the Florida Forest Service - Withlacoochee Forestry Center is trying to contain the fire from spreading further.
As of now, 0% of the fire remains contained.
Shoal Line Fire Evacuation Details
Hernando County Fire issued a mandatory evacuation notice on social media near the Shoal Line Fire.
Around 50–60 individuals were evacuated, mainly from commercial properties along the eastern side of Shoal Line Boulevard, Fox 13 reported. Crews are also spraying nearby structures with water as a precaution, since wind-driven embers from the fire could ignite buildings.
People living west of Shoal Line Boulevard have been to stay alert and be ready to leave if conditions worsen. At this time, they should remain indoors and await further instructions from authorities.
The update read: “All residence and businesses on the east side of Shoal Line Blvd between Calienta St and Osowaw Blvd. The Preserve Brush fire is fast moving towards Shoal Line Blvd. Please evacuate south on Shoal Line Blvd to Osowaw Blvd. Please use caution.”
Hernando County Fire Videos
Videos of the brush fire and massive emergency response underway were shared on social media. It showed thick, black smoke rising from the area as a firefighters tried to bring it under control.
For instance, here is one video from a nearby location. Smoke from the fire can be seen in the background with Sheriff's Department and Fire Department cars line up on the road.
Hernando County is located on the west-central coast of Florida, north of Tampa along the Gulf of Mexico.
This story is being developing.
