Crews Battle Brush Fire Near Weeki Wachee Homes

Hernando County Fire Rescue and Florida Forest Service work to protect structures as fire burns in 13000 block of Trapper John Road.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Firefighters from Hernando County Fire Rescue and the Florida Forest Service's Withlacoochee Forestry Center are working to contain a brush fire and protect nearby homes in the 13000 block of Trapper John Road in Weeki Wachee, Florida. The fire started on Saturday morning, and crews are focused on structure protection and halting the fire's forward progress.

Why it matters

Brush fires are a constant threat in the Weeki Wachee area, especially during dry periods like the current winter season. Hernando County has enacted a burn ban for unincorporated areas, underscoring the heightened fire risk. Protecting homes and residents is a top priority for the responding agencies.

The details

Multiple fire units and mutual-aid partners were called in to battle the brush fire. Firefighters are working to shield nearby structures and contain the blaze, which started in the 13000 block of Trapper John Road. The Florida Forest Service's Withlacoochee Forestry Center, which covers the Brooksville region, is assisting with the firefighting efforts.

  • The brush fire started on Saturday morning, February 15, 2026.

The players

Hernando County Fire Rescue

The fire department responsible for responding to the brush fire and leading structure protection efforts.

Florida Forest Service

The state agency assisting with the firefighting response through its Withlacoochee Forestry Center, which covers the Brooksville region.

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What they’re saying

“Firefighters are working on structure protection and containing the brush fire.”

— Hernando County Fire Rescue (X (social media)

What’s next

Officials will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the fire's status and any potential threats to nearby homes. The Florida Forest Service and Hernando County Fire Rescue will work to fully extinguish the blaze and ensure the safety of the Weeki Wachee community.

The takeaway

Brush fires are an ongoing concern in the Weeki Wachee area, especially during dry periods when the risk of fast-moving fires increases. The coordinated response between Hernando County Fire Rescue and the Florida Forest Service highlights the importance of preparedness and swift action to protect homes and residents when these incidents occur.