Hamilton County, Florida, is currently managing the Bee Haven Fire, a wildfire that has expanded to approximately 200 acres. In response to this growth, firefighters have begun a large-scale controlled burn covering about 2,500 acres. Smoke from the incident has been observed drifting southeast, impacting neighboring counties like Columbia and Lafayette, and raising concerns about reduced visibility on major roadways such as Interstate 75 and U.S. Highway 41, particularly during overnight and early morning hours.
The Florida Forest Service reported Thursday at 5 p.m. that the fire remained at roughly 200 acres and was 35% contained, though crews had established containment lines around about 95% of the fire area. The Bee Haven Fire originated Wednesday, Oct. 21, around 3:50 p.m. south of County Road 6 East and north of County Road 137, according to the Florida Forest Service.
Initially, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office reported Wednesday night that the wildfire covered about 95 acres and was 35% contained. By Thursday afternoon, Hamilton County Sheriff Brian Creech confirmed the fire’s growth to roughly 200 acres, with containment still at 35%.
Firefighters are actively working on the ground and from the air, with aerial resources supporting suppression efforts. Sheriff Creech stated that backburning operations had commenced. The large-scale controlled firing operation, spanning an area south of County Road 6 East, north of County Road 137, east of Southeast 120th Avenue, and west of Black Still Road, was initiated due to equipment limitations within the swampy terrain and predicted weather conditions for the upcoming weekend, as explained by the Florida Forest Service.
While Hamilton County itself had not experienced significant smoke problems by Thursday afternoon, Sheriff Creech noted the smoke's drift southeast. He also spoke with Lafayette County Sheriff Brian Lamb, who described substantial smoke within Lafayette County. The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office is monitoring conditions along Interstate 75 and U.S. Highway 41, where smoke could reduce visibility. Sheriff Creech highlighted the concern for overnight and early morning hours, stating that officials are particularly concerned with conditions “when the fog and the humidity lowers,” as smoke can settle and combine with fog.
Motorists are advised to reduce speed, increase following distances, use low-beam headlights when visibility is reduced, and avoid traveling into areas where visibility is severely limited.
The Florida Forest Service reported Thursday evening that no structures were threatened by the fire. However, residents near the fire should anticipate smoke and stay aware of changing conditions. Officials requested that residents avoid flying drones near the fire, as they could interfere with ongoing aerial operations. The Sheriff’s Office also urged people to avoid unnecessary travel around County Road 137 to allow emergency personnel safe movement. Sheriff Creech advised residents who smell smoke to recognize it may be from the existing wildfire, but to report any visible flames or suspected new fires.
Hamilton County resident and local artist Dale Ann Worthington emphasized the importance of preparedness, encouraging residents to be mindful of activities that could increase fire risks, such as improperly extinguished smoking materials and burning yard debris.
The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office plans to continue sharing updates via its Facebook page, and more urgent information may be distributed through the county’s emergency notification system. Residents can contact the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line at 386-792-1001 for questions or concerns. The Florida Forest Service also recommended monitoring local officials for potential road closures and other safety updates.