Brevard County fire officials are closely monitoring drought conditions that have raised the risk of wildfires, despite a weekend rain forecast. Two brush fires broke out on Feb. 26 in central and northern parts of the county—one near two private schools and another near a residential neighborhood—before being contained by Brevard County Fire Rescue and state firefighters on Feb. 27. The fires came as the county remains under drought conditions, with temperatures expected to rise again midweek and stronger winds anticipated in March.
Don Walker, a spokesperson for Brevard County Fire Rescue, said the department has a plan to respond quickly to fires but emphasized proactive measures are already in place. A burn ban is active, and brush trucks and staff are stationed in Valkaria, West Melbourne, and Cocoa until the risk subsides. "There are fires all over the state," Walker said. "We monitor conditions closely this time of year and have resources ready."
The National Weather Service reported that Melbourne has received only 1.83 inches of rain since Jan. 1—2.66 inches below the normal amount for this time of year. Megan Tollefsen, a meteorologist with the service, said the weekend will bring about half an inch of rain, which will not alleviate drought conditions but is still welcome. "Any rain is better than none," she said.
Firefighters used engines, tankers, and helicopters to control the two recent fires, which burned quickly but were extinguished before spreading further. Officials warn that vegetation damaged by multiple freezes is continuing to dry out, increasing the risk of more fires as temperatures rise and winds strengthen. The situation remains under watch as the county prepares for potentially drier conditions in the coming weeks.