What to Know
- Officials with Monroe County said one home was destroyed as the fire moved west across the island
Crews were working Monday to put out a large, fast-moving brush fire in the Florida Keys that destroyed at least one home after it started Sunday afternoon.
The fire broke out on Big Pine Key, less than 30 miles east of Key West. Officials with Monroe County said one home was destroyed as the fire moved west across the island.
As of about 9 a.m., the fire was about 40 percent contained, officials said. Crews from Monroe County Fire Rescue, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Forest Service were battling the blaze.
"We did not lose any ground or any more structures last night," Monroe County Emergency Management Director Marty Senterfitt said Monday morning. "Many people worked long hours without sleep to protect people’s homes and prevent the fire from spreading."
Evacuations were possible on the west side of the island and there were scattered hot spots over a wide area, officials said. No injuries were reported.
Officials said there were scattered hot spots throughout the area and there was a strong possibility of flare-ups Monday.
Local
People who don't live on Big Pine Key should avoid the area, officials said.
The cause of the fire was unknown but is being investigated.
Check back with NBC 6 for updates.
