The City of Jacksonville and the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department have issued an immediate burn ban across Duval County as dangerous wildfire conditions intensify, officials said Tuesday.
Officials cited critically dry conditions, low humidity and gusty winds as factors creating an elevated threat to life and property.
The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for the area Tuesday, signaling extreme fire danger. Jacksonville is also experiencing its driest period on record since 1872, according to city officials.
Other areas of the First Coast were battling wildfires Tuesday, with evacuations underway in Brantley, Bradford, Clay and Putnam counties.
“JFRD is ready,” Fire Chief Percy Golden II said in a statement. “Our crews are trained, our equipment is staged, and we are monitoring conditions closely. What we need right now is for our community to do its part. One spark in this environment can become a crisis very quickly.”
Mayor Donna Deegan urged residents to comply with the restrictions.
“Don’t burn,” Deegan said. “It’s the best thing residents can do right now to protect their family, their neighbors, and the firefighters who are working hard to keep Jacksonville safe.”
The Duval County Emergency Operations Center has moved to a Level 2 partial activation to coordinate resources and monitor fire conditions.
“We’re not waiting for a large fire,” said Andre Ayoub, chief of the city’s Emergency Preparedness Division. “We are coordinating with stakeholders to ensure everyone is prepared. Now we need the public to understand the significance of this situation.”
According to a city-issued FAQ, outdoor burning is typically restricted without a permit year-round, but the current ban eliminates even limited exceptions such as recreational campfires and yard waste burning.
Residents are advised to call 911 if they see smoke or unattended fires, as flames can spread quickly under current conditions.
Officials also warned about the health risks of wildfire smoke, which can cause coughing, breathing difficulties and other symptoms, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, older adults and those with respiratory conditions.
To reduce exposure, residents are encouraged to stay indoors with windows and doors closed, use air conditioning on recirculate mode and consider using HEPA air purifiers. If going outside is necessary, properly fitted N95 or P100 masks are recommended.
Updates on the burn ban will be posted on JaxReady.com and through official city and fire department channels.