Wildfires disrupt travel, strand train passengers, prompt evacuations across Florida
Brush fire in Lake County prompts evacuations as crews near containment
A brush fire in Lake County prompted voluntary evacuations for several homes as crews worked to contain the flames that were moving closer to residential areas. Officials said the fire began days earlier during a land-clearing operation that got out of control and, with strong winds, spread into a nearby swamp, increasing its intensity.
DELAND, Fla. - Wildfires burning across North and Central Florida are disrupting travel and prompting emergency declarations, as officials warn conditions could worsen.
The fires have already halted train service and left hundreds of passengers stranded for hours.
What we know:
Officials say multiple wildfires are burning across the region, including in Alachua County, where a state of emergency has been declared. Additional fires are active in Clay County and Putnam County, with two major blazes reported just miles apart.
The fires forced Amtrak to halt some routes, including Train 98, the Silver Meteor, which runs from Miami to New York City.
More than 200 passengers were stranded for over 24 hours near DeLand after the train encountered wildfire conditions along the tracks.
Passengers reported deteriorating conditions onboard, including overflowing toilets, limited food and water, and some running out of medication. Emergency responders boarded the train to assist at least one passenger experiencing chest pains.
Wildfires disrupt travel, strand train passengers in Florida
Wildfires burning across North and Central Florida are disrupting travel and prompting emergency declarations, as officials warn conditions could worsen. The fires have already halted train service and left hundreds of passengers stranded for hours. The fires forced Amtrak to halt some routes, including Train 98, the Silver Meteor, which runs from Miami to New York City.
Another brush fire in Umatilla prompted voluntary evacuations for several homes as crews worked to contain flames that moved closer to residential areas. Lake County residents were advised to avoid the area of Wiygul Road.
Officials said the fire began days earlier during a land-clearing operation that got out of control and spread with strong winds into a nearby swamp, increasing its intensity.
Firefighters responded with ground crews and water-dropping aircraft, bringing the blaze to about 85% containment across roughly 120 acres. Five homes were initially placed under voluntary evacuation orders, though officials said no structures were in immediate danger.
Authorities warned that continued dry and windy conditions could complicate efforts, and the contractor involved in the land clearing could face a citation as the investigation continues.
Lake County Fire Rescue, the Umatilla Fire Department and the Florida Forest Service all worked together to contain the fire.
What we don't know:
It remains unclear how long travel disruptions will continue or when all affected passengers will reach their destinations.
Officials have not detailed the full extent of damage caused by the fires or how quickly they can be contained.
What they're saying:
Passengers described a chaotic and distressing experience.
"I feel very trapped. You don’t abandon your passengers," one rider said.
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Another passenger, overcome with emotion, described the situation as "a horrible" ordeal after spending more than a day stuck onboard.
Amtrak said it plans to refund passengers and offer travel vouchers, though some travelers are questioning whether additional costs — such as missed hotels or events — will be reimbursed.
Timeline:
The train departed Miami around 7 a.m. Sunday and was scheduled to arrive in New York by late Monday morning. Instead, it was halted after encountering wildfire conditions between Clay and Putnam counties.
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By late Monday morning, passengers were still onboard near DeLand before the train eventually returned to a station, where some disembarked.
What's next:
The FOX 35 Storm Team warns that fire conditions could worsen due to high winds and low humidity. Much of the Florida peninsula is under a fire weather warning, signaling a high risk for rapid fire spread.
Rain chances remain low for at least the next week, increasing concern that fires could continue or expand.
The Source: This story was written based on information shared by Amtrak, Lake County Fire Rescue, the Umatilla Fire Department and the Florida Forest Service.