RIVER RANCH, Fla. — The days-long brush fire in River Ranch is now 100% contained as rain has aided the Florida Forest Service in putting out the fire.
During the past two days, the fire has been in the "mop up" phase with one portion being 90% contained and the other being 75% contained. The service said on Wednesday that the fire is completely contained after starting on June 5, according to a news release.
There may still be some smoldering of vegetation in the area, the release said. The fire won't be considered closed or controlled until there are no more hot spots or smoke visible across the entire area of the fire, the service said. Fire personnel will continue to mop up flare-ups and keep up the containment lines.
The total acreage burned near the complex is 4,500, according to crews. The Department of Agriculture Law enforcement started an investigation into the cause on Saturday, but it might take several weeks before they release their findings.
Officials are urging drivers in the River Ranch and Indian Lake Estates area to use caution because of changing smoke conditions. County Road 630 has been completely reopened to regular traffic.
Even with recent rainfall, the forest service is asking people to be careful with any outdoor activities that can spark a fire such as welding and grinding or activities involving an open flame.
More information on wildfire prevention from the Florida Forest Service can be found here. In addition, for more information on other brush fires in the Florida region, check out the Forest Service's Fire Management Information System Mapping Tool.