Brush Fire Near Alligator Alley 15% Contained as Evacuations Ordered

Residents flee as 1,500-acre blaze threatens homes in southwest Florida

Apr. 14, 2026 at 2:54pm

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a massive wall of smoke and flames dwarfing a small cluster of homes in the distance, conveying the overwhelming scale and power of a natural disaster.A raging brush fire threatens homes and businesses in southwest Florida, exposing the region's vulnerability to the growing threat of wildfires.West Palm Beach Today

A large brush fire, dubbed the Newman Drive Fire, has forced evacuations in parts of southwest Florida near Naples as the 1,500-acre blaze continues to spread. Firefighters have the fire 15% contained so far.

Why it matters

Brush fires are a major threat in Florida, especially during the dry season, and can quickly grow out of control, endangering homes and businesses. This fire is one of the largest in the region in recent years, highlighting the need for effective wildfire management and preparedness.

The details

The Newman Drive Fire began on Friday and has already consumed over 1,500 acres in the area near Alligator Alley. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for several neighborhoods as the fire continues to grow, fanned by strong winds. Firefighters from multiple agencies are battling the blaze, which is currently 15% contained.

  • The fire started on Friday, April 14, 2026.
  • Evacuation orders were issued as the fire grew in size.

The players

Newman Drive Fire

A large brush fire that has burned over 1,500 acres in southwest Florida near Naples.

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What’s next

Firefighters will continue working to contain and extinguish the Newman Drive Fire in the coming days. Residents under evacuation orders will be allowed to return home once the fire is brought under control and deemed no longer a threat.

The takeaway

This brush fire serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of wildfires in Florida, especially as the state faces increasingly dry and hot conditions due to climate change. Effective wildfire management and community preparedness will be crucial to protecting lives and property in the future.