Pasco County officials announced early this afternoon that Starkey Park has been evacuated and all access to the park is prohibited. No camping, hiking, or biking access is allowed.

Currently officials say that the wildfire is just under 10 acres. The Florida Forest Service reports that their bulldozers and a scout plane have been deployed to contain the fire.

UPDATE: As of 1:30 PM on April 13th, Starkey Park remains closed and officials are asking residents to steer clear. Officials have reported that some residents have ignored signs and entered the park in spite of warnings. Officials are reminding citizens to obey all signage.

Officials are also now saying that the fire was caused by humans, that 150 acres have now burned, and it is 40% contained.

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Pasco County Commissioners also voted this morning to put a burn ban into effect immediately. The ban prohibits burning of any trash or debris, prohibits uncovered fires, and prohibits the use of fireworks.