Crews Respond to Small Wildfire Near Lochloosa in Hawthorne

Firefighters are responding to a 2 to 3 acre wildfire near Lochloosa in Hawthorne that is slowly spreading in a swamp area, with no current threat to the public or structures.

By Ashley Brace May 4, 2026 5:01 pm

A colored photo of a wildfire. — ContributedPixabayFire crews are responding to a 2 to 3 acre wildfire near Lochloosa in Hawthorne. Officials say the fire is slowly spreading in a swamp area, with no threat to the public or structures at this time.

HAWTHORNE, FL (352today.com) – The Florida Forest Service’s Waccasassa Forestry Center and Alachua County Fire Rescue are working to contain a wildfire near S County Road 325 and SE County Road 346 in the Lochloosa area of Hawthorne.

Officials said the fire is estimated at 2 to 3 acres and is burning in a swampy area, where it is slowly spreading. There is no danger to the public or nearby structures at this time.

Authorities also reminded residents that a drone is currently operating over the fire for suppression efforts. Flying personal drones near active wildfires is illegal and can interfere with emergency operations, potentially leading to civil penalties or criminal prosecution. Updates will be provided as they become available.