Massive Pasco Wildfire 50 Percent Contained: Forest Service

LAND O’ LAKES, FL — A massive wildfire burning in the Starkey Preserve grew to 2,275 acres in the overnight hours, according to Florida Forest Service officials. The fire stopped about 1 ½ miles short of the Suncoast Parkway, which was closed in both directions Saturday due to firefighting efforts and heavy smoke.

As of 10 a.m. Sunday, May 7, forest service officials deemed the fire 50 percent contained. The Suncoast Parkway was being reopened to traffic, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Pasco County officials, however, had warned on Saturday that periodic closings might be necessary through the day on Sunday.

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On Saturday, residents of the Bexley Ranch subdivision in the Land O' Lakes area were told they could return to their homes. A voluntary evacuation request for the community was issued earlier in the day after the fire broke out in the Starkey Preserve. While Pasco County Emergency Management gave the clear for residents to go home, they asked them to continue monitoring news and social media for any changes.

Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park will remain closed through Sunday "to give fire crews the access they need to fight the Anclote Branch fire," the county said. Camping activities at Starkey Park have also been canceled through May 11, county officials said. Bike and hiking trails will remain closed until further notice, as well.

As the wildfire continues to burn, officials remind that a countywide outdoor burn ban remains in place. As of Sunday, no grills, barbecues or campfires are being allowed at any Pasco County park until further notice.

County officials say firefighters are not in need of any food donations, but they are accepting items such as water, Chap Stick, bug repellent, non-perishable snacks and Gatorade. Donations may be dropped off through the Salvation Army at the front entrance to Starkey Park.

The cause of the fire remains unknown, Pasco County officials said.

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Photo courtesy of Pasco County