Pasco County officials closed River Ridge High School and River Ridge Middle School on Wednesday due to smoke from a nearby fire at Starkey Wilderness Park. The fire, which started on Tuesday, has forced the closure of the schools as a precautionary measure to ensure student safety.
The Tampa Bay area is currently experiencing an “extremely high” level of wildfire danger due to a severe drought. According to officials, the dry conditions have increased the risk of wildfires, and residents are urged to take precautions to prevent fires from starting. The Pasco County School District is working closely with local authorities to monitor the situation and ensure that students and staff are safe.
The wildfire danger level is expected to remain high in the coming days, and residents are advised to stay informed about the situation. The Pasco County Emergency Management department is providing updates on the fire and offering tips on how to prevent wildfires. Residents can visit the Pasco County Emergency Management website for more information.
For those affected by the fire, local resources are available to provide assistance. The American Red Cross and other organizations are offering support to those displaced or affected by the fire. Residents can visit the American Red Cross website or contact local authorities for more information on available resources.
Originally reported by WFLA – Pasco County
Sources: WFLA – Pasco County
