‘Peak fire season is not here yet’
A grass fire burns along U.S. Highway 41 in Everglades National Park in Miami-Dade County, April 28, 2026. Courtesy, National Park Service
Despite scattered rain this past weekend, the extensive drought across Florida that we’ve reported in recent newsletters is showing no sign of easing, bringing more wildfires in parts of Northern Florida, Southern Georgia, and the Carolinas that have forced evacuations and destroyed homes. So far, more than 120,000 acres have burned in Florida this year, fueled by the low humidity and sweeping winds, a situation described as “nearly ideal fire conditions.” For Florida, this is the worst drought in 25 years, with 80-90% of the Sunshine State under ‘extreme’ or ‘exceptional’ drought designations. In Tallahassee, it’s officially the worst drought ever recorded. The smoke from wildfires has also prompted health advisories. And the tragedies keep piling up.
Smoke from the Railroad Fire Complex blaze in Clay and Putnam Counties, April 21, 2026. Courtesy, Florida Forest Service
Just last week, Hilliard volunteer firefighter James “Kevin” Crews lost his life after suffering a medical emergency while battling the Old Dixie Highway brush fire and was honored with a funeral procession through his native Nassau County, where community leaders, volunteers, and friends came together to remember his life and sacrifice. This blaze and others are still being fought across the state. FEMA has authorized funding to help combat the Cow Creek Fire in Levy County that threatens more than 1,200 homes, and for the Railroad Fire Complex blaze in Putnam and Clay Counties that threatened more than 1,500 homes, 3 businesses, and infrastructure. Two shelters are open there for the 220 people that have voluntarily evacuated.
Even with this help, experts are warning of new fires. “The peak fire season is not here yet. That’s usually toward the end of May,” said Florida Forest Service Director Rick Dolan during a press conference last Tuesday in Green Cove Springs. “We have not received lightning so far, and when that comes, and it’s coming, we’re going to be as busy as we probably have been in decades. But we’re well prepared.” Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson warned that the state would most likely be in drought for the next two months and reminded the public of the burn bans in effect statewide.
A map of wildfires in Florida as of May 3, 2026. Source: Florida Forest Service
The drought is not just in Florida and Georgia; it’s now affecting more than 60% of the country, with a 2026 wildfire forecast anticipating between 5.5 and 8 million acres will burn nationwide. California and the Northwest US are facing extreme wildfire risks thanks to below average snowpack and above average temperatures. The worry for many homeowners is how to protect their assets against these infernos. In Georgia, Insurance Commissioner John King barred property insurance policy cancellations for nonpayment of premiums in light of the raging fires that have destroyed 120 homes and forced more than 200 residents to flee. A wildfire mitigation program called Wildfire Prepared is now available in about a dozen states, including Florida thanks to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS). While insurance discounts are not guaranteed, many insurers recognize the designation certificate, which has other benefits including documented risk reduction, potential insurance eligibility improvements, increased resale appeal, and a greater peace of mind. Remember, any steps you take to protect your most valuable asset, your home, are worthwhile.
LMA Newsletter of 5-4-26
