Collier County’s Picayune Strand Fire Expands to 100 Acres
A fast-moving brush fire in the Picayune Strand State Forest prompted evacuations Monday afternoon in Collier County. The blaze reached 605 acres and showed 10% containment as of 5:30 p.m. on April 13, 2026.
Evacuations and affected areas
Officials ordered evacuations for several streets east of Forest Glen Golf & Country Club. Evacuated roads include parts of Stable Way, Union Drive, Barton Gliba Drive, Benfield Road, Beck Boulevard and Le Buff Road.
The scene lies south of the Alligator Alley toll plaza and just below I-75. A Florida Department of Transportation camera stream covers the area near mile marker 97.
Response and current conditions
The Florida Forest Service is leading suppression efforts. Greater Naples Fire Rescue and North Collier Fire Rescue are assisting on the ground.
The Florida Highway Patrol reported smoke near I-75 mile marker 98. Winds have been pushing westward, raising concerns about smoky conditions along Collier Boulevard south of I-75.
Officials warned drivers to use caution in the smoky corridors. The incident has been referred to locally as the Newman and Beck Blvd Brush Fire.
Size and containment
The fire expanded rapidly during the afternoon. Firefighting teams reported 605 acres involved and 10% containment at the 5:30 p.m. update.
Shelter and guidance for evacuees
A Safe Haven is open at the Golden Gate Community Center. The address is 4701 Golden Gate Parkway.
The shelter accepts pets and is the only open facility at this time. Weapons and alcoholic beverages are not allowed.
What to bring
- Prescription medications
- Sleeping bag, blanket or pillow
- Change of clothes and personal hygiene items
- Snacks, special dietary foods, baby formula and diapers
- Pet food and vaccination records
- Books, magazines or electronic entertainment with headphones
For shelter information, call the Golden Gate Community Center Safe Haven at (239) 252-4180. This developing incident will be updated on Filmogaz.com.
