ORLANDO, Fla. — Firefighters from around Central Florida are joining the battle to save hundreds of homes from a raging wildfire in the Florida Panhandle.
WATCH: ‘The perfect storm’: Massive wildfire forces evacuation of 600 homes in Florida Panhandle
Crews gathered Saturday afternoon in Orange County to plan their response to the 1,400-acre wildfire in Bay County.
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A “strike team” of firefighters from Orange County, St. Cloud, Seminole County, Osceola County and Cape Canaveral have baned together to join the efforts in North Florida.
Photos: Central Florida firefighters join efforts to battle massive wildfire in Florida Panhandle
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A state of emergency has been issued in Bay County as the so-called “Adkins Avenue Fire” has destroyed and damaged homes.
As of Saturday afternoon, the wildfire was only 30% contained and around 600 homes have been evacuated.
Gov. Ron DeSantis was in Bay County Saturday morning to give an update on the response from state and local officials.
READ: 600 homes evacuated as wildfire rages in Florida Panhandle
“We will continue to support Bay County residents while first responders work diligently to contain the fire,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Residents in Bay County should ensure their safety by continuing to follow all orders from local officials while the fire remains active.”
Officials said the wildfire started Friday by someone who was burning their trash.
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Channel 9 will continue to monitor the Adkins Avenue Fire in Bay County and have updates on Eyewitness News.
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