- May 2, 2024
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Motorists in Flagler County could be driving through smoke into the holidays, as a fire burns off County Road 304, near Bunnell, officials said Tuesday.
A large area of dense smoke caused early-morning travel problems on Interstate 95, U.S. 1 and State Road 100 in Flagler County Tuesday, and the problem is likely to continue for some time.
The dense smoke is due to a fire on a nine-acre pile of mulch, stumps and other debris that was reported at 9 p.m. Monday, at 443 County Road 304, west of U.S. 1.
Flagler County Fire Rescue Chief Don Petito estimated the pile to be approximately 70 feet high and, despite overnight efforts, the fire is expected to continue to produce heavy smoke for several weeks.
According to school officials, the smoke and fog made it difficult for Flagler Palm Coast High School students to make it safely inside the high school Tuesday morning. It also affected travel in the southern areas of Palm Coast.
No accidents or injuries were reported as a result of the low visibility, officials confirmed.
A conference call was initiated by Kevin Guthrie, Flagler County’s public safety emergency manager, from the Emergency Operations Center at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday. The call provided a forum to coordinate information with emergency agencies that included the Florida Highway Patrol, state emergency officials, law enforcement agencies, representatives from the Flagler County School District and representatives from the Flagler County, Palm Coast and Flagler Beach fire departments.
Weather conditions are predicted to be similar tomorrow morning, and the smoke mixed with fog may continue to make travel difficult in the areas east of the fire. Petito said because of the size of the pile of debris, it may take a month or more for the smoke to dissipate.
Florida Highway Patrol and other law enforcement agencies will be monitoring the situation and if conditions require, may close affected roads. Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible and use caution when driving in areas affected by the smoke.
— Andrew O'Brien contributed to this report.
