Crews battle bushfire near Stuart West community in Palm City

Brush that ignited near the community of Stuart West in Palm City was caused by embers from a previous brush fire, Martin County firefighters said.

Crews responded to the approximately 30-acre brush fire Friday afternoon in the 3100 block of southwest Buena Vista. Martin County firefighters initially reported the fire was about 100 acres. However, that number reflects the total acres in the area recently affected by the fires, the Martin County Fire Department told WPTV.

The Florida Forest Service responded to the fire with a response team of seven bulldozers, used to remove flammable vegetation. There have also been requests for a brush cutter truck from St. Lucie County and the Stuart Fire Department.

The Martin County Sheriff's Office helicopter assisted from above with water drops.

Martin County Fire Department spokesperson Cory Pippin told WPTV the fire was near homes and crews were actively working to keep it from spreading. Crews also evacuated several homes Friday evening as a precaution. People have since been allowed to return home.

No homes were damaged and no animals or people were injured, Martin County Fire Chief Chad Cianciulli said.

Drivers should use caution if traveling in the area or on Interstate 95, as smoke could significantly impair visibility.

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