LAKELAND — A lightning strike ignited a wildfire at Lakeland Highlands Scrub Tuesday afternoon that has burned more than 30 acres and remains active.
Florida Fire Service's Lakeland office received a call around 3 p.m. Tuesday from Polk County asking for assistance to contain a brushfire in Lakeland Highlands Scrub. Strong winds and abnormally dry conditions allowed the spark to quickly spread, according to Todd Chlanda, a spokesperson for Florida Fire Service.
The Lakeland Highlands Scrub fire was considered 95% contained but was still active Wednesday afternoon, according to Chlanda. Polk County officials have since closed off the preserve, as the property is part of the county's Environmental Lands Program. It is expected to be reopened by the weekend.