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Florida Burns: Dry Spell Fuels Wildfires
22 Apr
Summary
- Jacksonville faces its driest period since 1872.
- Over 20,000 acres scorched by 135 active fires statewide.
- Jacksonville's air quality is currently rated as 'unhealthy'.
Florida is battling severe wildfire conditions, with Jacksonville enduring its driest period on record since 1872. As of April 22, 2026, over 135 active fires have consumed nearly 21,000 acres statewide, prompting widespread red flag warnings and burn bans. Duval and St. Johns counties have enacted burn bans, joining nearly half of Florida's counties.
The intense dry spell has led to dangerous conditions, with the National Weather Service issuing specific forecasts for "superfog" and dense smoke near active fire sites. Jacksonville's air quality was reported as "unhealthy" on April 22, 2026, impacting residents. Officials have prohibited all open burning within Duval County until further notice due to the elevated risk to life and property.
