Large Brush Fire Emerges in New Smyrna Beach

FRIDAY MORNING UPDATE: As of Friday morning, the Honeydew Fire is measured at 338 acres and is 80% contained according to the Volusia County Professional Firefighters Association. Volusia County has placed under a red flag warning, indicating ‘critical fire weather conditions’ due to strong winds and low humidity. A major brush fire is ongoing in New Smyrna Beach as of Thursday, according to emergency officials. As of Thursday evening the fire was measured at 300 acres according to the Volusia County Professional Firefighters Association. The fire is being referred to as the Honeydew Fire and is located near SR-44 and Honeydew Lane in the Samsula area. The most recent information states the fire is 40% contained, meaning crews are that far into plowing lines around the flames to contain them from spreading further. As of now no evacuations have been ordered, and there has yet to be an announcement warning of danger to any structures or residences. The fire grew over the course of Thursday from less than 75 acres to the latest estimate of 300. Several crews are on-scene assisting in the response according to the Volusia County Professional Firefighters Association. Other involved agencies include the New Smyrna Beach Fire Department, Florida Forest Service, Flagler County Fire Rescue, and Edgewater Fire Rescue. Multiple helicopters and teams of bulldozers are working to contain and battle the brush fire.