A fast-moving brush fire is actively burning through the Picayune Strand State Forest near Naples, Florida, sending a large plume of smoke into the sky and prompting evacuations in surrounding communities. The fire has spread rapidly through dense vegetation under dry seasonal conditions typical of Florida’s spring wildfire risk period. Local authorities have issued evacuation orders for parts of Collier County, particularly south of Interstate 75. Residents in affected areas have been urged to leave immediately as conditions remain unstable.

As of April 14, 2026, officials report that the fire—known as the Newman Drive Fire—has burned approximately 1,500 acres and remains only about 15 percent contained. The blaze reportedly began on April 13 near Newman Drive and Beck Boulevard and quickly escalated due to strong winds and dry fuel conditions. Fire behavior has been described as aggressive, with rapid lateral spread through brush and forested terrain. The scale of the smoke plume has made visibility difficult across portions of the region.

Multiple agencies are now engaged in containment efforts, including the Florida Forest Service, Greater Naples Fire Rescue, and Collier County emergency teams. Aerial support, including water-dropping helicopters, has been deployed to slow the fire’s advance and protect residential zones. Emergency management officials have also established a pet-friendly evacuation shelter at the Golden Gate Community Center to accommodate displaced residents. Coordination efforts continue as crews work to establish containment lines.

Officials warn that changing weather conditions and continued dry vegetation could complicate suppression efforts in the coming days. Wildfire risk remains elevated across southwest Florida due to prolonged dry conditions and accumulated fuel loads in forested areas. Authorities are urging residents to remain alert and follow evacuation guidance without delay if conditions worsen. The situation remains active and subject to rapid change as firefighting operations continue.