A lightning strike from a severe thunderstorm started a conflagration in Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge this afternoon. It is north of Kennedy Space Center, and is currently no threat to property or human endeavor — in other words, the facilities at Kennedy Space Center.

Merritt Island National Wildlife Released this statement on social media at roughly 11PM Saturday: “A lightning caused fire is currently burning in the Peacocks Pocket impoundment. The fire is estimated to be 150-200 acres. Fish & Wildlife firefighters are onsite and will monitor the blaze throughout the night. Expect all access roads to Peacocks Pocket to be closed tomorrow until fire crews determine they are safe, including: West Gator Creek, Gator Creek East Gator Creek, and Catfish Creek roads.”

7pm, May 25

11 PM, May 25, 2024

12PM, May 26, 2024

The wildfire largely burned itself out during the day, and only a few hotspots were left. No naked flames were visible. By the next morning, there were few signs of fire at all.

Fire Location